PhD An integrated approach for damage identification in composite materials
PhD @Loughborough University posted 11 hours agoJob Description
Project details
Non-destructive inspection based on acoustics is today one of the primary methods for the identification of damage precursors in components and structures.
Acoustics-based methods are widely used to monitor material states during manufacturing or in operational conditions, however, there is a need for models that would assist in the interpretation of experimental findings.
The aim of this project is the identification of damage in composite plates through an integrated experimental-computational approach. To this aim, experimental measurements at the micro- and macro-scale using state-of-the-art monitoring techniques (e.g. micro-CT, Digital Image Correlation) will be used to quantify damage states and create inputs for the computational approach. The latter will leverage particle-based and continuum-level numerical techniques (peridynamics, XFEM) suitable to study wave propagation in layered materials and simulation of fracture events. Then, damaged regions will be predicted through modelling of ultrasonic testing. Also, the energy release of characteristic fracture types will be quantified, which is crucial to the design of next-generation sensing technologies.
The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has seen 100% of its research impact rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).
Supervisors
Primary supervisor:Â Dr Konstantinos Baxevanakis
Entry requirements
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 honours degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, materials engineering, aerospace engineering, civil engineering or a related subject. A relevant master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: mechanical engineering, materials engineering, aerospace engineering, and civil engineering.
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.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’. Please quote reference number: UF-KB-2024-2
