Project details
The goal of this project is to develop a multiscale framework that incorporates continuum dislocation mechanics (CDM) with grain boundary mechanics to understand the interplay between dislocations and grain boundaries (GBs) in metallic alloys.
Why do this?
• Current models often portray grain boundaries (GBs) as static, impenetrable obstacles for dislocations. This limited understanding hinders the prediction of material behaviour under stress.
• This research will provide a more nuanced view of the dynamic interplay between dislocations and GBs. By capturing how dislocations overcome or are pinned by GBs, we can gain valuable insights into how these interactions influence a material’s strength and ductility.
• The multiscale approach will bridge the gap between the macroscopic response of the material and the microscopic mechanisms governing dislocation-GB interactions, leading to a more holistic understanding of material behaviour.
What are the outcomes?
• Design of novel alloys with tailored GBs to optimize strength, ductility, and fracture toughness.
• Understanding the role of GB engineering in enhancing material performance for extreme environments.
• Predicting the influence of processing techniques on dislocation-GB interactions and subsequent mechanical properties.
Methodology:
We will work on an existing continuum dislocation mechanics model known as Mesoscopic Field Dislocation Mechanics, developed over the years and shown to account for the effect of dislocations across length scales. The model will be extended to incorporate the effect of grain boundaries in a physically reasonable way and will be calibrated with experimental studies to ensure the effects of GBs are accurately accounted for in the model across length scales.
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants should have or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in any engineering degree programme, physics or mathematics.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2024-25 entry
UK fee
£4,786 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£27,500 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2024-25 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2024, January 2025, April 2025 and July 2025.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
There is no funding aligned to this project. This project is self-funded so applicants will be required to cover the cost of tuition fees and their own living expenses or have an external sponsor.
Please see our research degree funding page for ways to fund your research degree.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering/ Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering’. Please quote reference number: UF-AR-2024-2 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit your CV and the minimum supporting documents. .
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
