PhD Study : Computer Modelling of Phase Change in Monotectic Metal Alloys

Summary

Monotectic metal alloys are an interesting class of material. Under the correct cooling conditions, two distinct liquid phases separate out from the initially uniform molten metal before solidifying. Then as the metal cools down even further and eventually solidifies, a structural metal with a dispersed phase is formed. The ideal monotecic alloy structure will have a soft dispersed phase in the form of fibres or small spherical globules distributed within a hard monotectic matrix. Hence monotectic alloys may be thought of as a class of naturally-occurring, metal-matrix, composite material. Monotectic alloy materials have can have specific properties for application as electric contacts, superconductors, bearings and optical components.

This project will focus on the adaptation and development of a new approach to modelling alloy solidification called the Nucleation Progenitor Function (NPF) approach, which was developed for crystalline materials. The supervision team at Ulster University has significant experience in this area. There shall be a strong focus on comparing the modelling results to experimental data. Experimental data is available from literature and from international partners. In particular, transparent versions of monotectic materials are available where the phase formations can be clearly observed in real time using cameras. Such is the interest in these materials that their microstructure development has been studied in ground-based experiments and in zero-gravity space conditions. The analysis of real-time experimental data and comparison with simulation results will be a key focus of this work. The NPF approach is particularly suited to this type of comparison work.

This project will suit a candidate with an interest in materials science and a passion for engineering mathematics. A good knowledge or a demonstrative willingness to learn how heat transfer occurs in materials will be required. An upfront knowledge of computer application is not essential, but the ambition to learn applied programming is essential. The candidate is expected have an honours degree of standing (preferably a first class honour or a minimum of an upper second class) in mechanical engineering, materials science, materials engineering, physics, or other suitable technical field.

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

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 £19,000 (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