PhD Study : The development of natural fibre composites for marine applications

Summary

The future trend for the global advanced composites market is anticipated to be Bio-composites (natural fibre composites). Additionally, bio-based polymer matrices are environment-friendly and are the subject of extensive research in various fields. Bio-based matrices are also lightweight and exhibit long-term sustainability, which drives their use in commercial applications. Furthermore, the easy availability of natural raw materials to produce bio-based resin is driving its supply and demand. Bio based matrices and bio-composites are employed in several secondary applications in the aerospace, automobiles, packaging, electronics and construction sectors.

This project will focus on developing an understanding of the application of hemp fibre and improving its performance within a composite for the marine sector. This sector requires operation in harsh environments, and is regulations driven. These challenges can be addreses with the application of scientific and engineering reserc, and if susessful will produce a step change in the marine industry and will help the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the global regulatory body for shipping, to meet its sectoral target of net-zero emissions by or around 2050.

The proposed PhD project focuses on aspects of the biofibre/biocomposite development and characterization for marine applications including:

· Understanding and improving the compatibility and adhesion between the natural fibre and bio based resin through methods such as plasma surface treatment - air plasma/chemical treatment and characterisation of fibre surface,

· Identification and use of suitable characterization techniques to asses the fibre-resin interface properties – also related to forming process (weaving, 3D, multi-axial)

· Water ingress and aging studies to investigate the effect of water diffusion over time on the bio-composite mechanical performance

· Assessment and metigsation of biofilm formation on bio-composite surfaces exposed to sea water

· Improving mechanical performance and durability of bio-composite structures in relation to the dynamic loading conditions and the aggressive under water environment through optimization of bio-composite formulation, design and manufacturing

· Design Optimisation process including potential for forming through likes of weaving etc.

· Salt water corrostion and UV stability in Topside marine structures

· Fire performance for Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) regulations.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living