This project considers evolution of the race track surface / tire interface as it changes over its life. A race track has surface texture at a range of scales from micro-scale roughness on the surface of aggregate particles to larger macro-scale roughness created by combining aggregates of different sizes to form the asphalt surface layer. Race car tyre rubber deforms or envelopes these different track surface texture scales influencing dry and wet grip, tire wear / degradation; lap times etc.
There is little published about this interface and how it evolves from new construction to planned removal and replacement with a new surfacing layer.. Whilst there is considerable interest in tire wear / degradation and grip there is little published on the race track surface which forms the other part of this interface. Meetings with representatives from motorsport i.e. the governing bodies, F1 teams and race-track owners have confirmed the need to know more.
This project builds on years of research at Ulster University into better understanding the performance of asphalt surface / tire interface related characteristics such as skid resistance, noise generation and rolling resistance. Roads and racetracks use the same types of asphalt surfacing material only the type and severity of trafficking differs. Following construction bitumen is worn away at the interface by the tire and the aggregate starts to polish.
A racing line then develops in response to how the car / bike interacts with the race track surface. The race track will then develop a longer-term equilibrium condition with the tire / surface interface effected over shorter time periods by the effects of rain, temperature and tire rubber deposits during race events. All of which effect the car / bike and its lap times.
Project aim: To better understand evolution of the race track / tire interface.
Project objectives:
The project will involve collaboration with R3 Ltd and its contacts within motorsport around the world. It will involve race-team’s, tire manufacturers, racetrack owners and motorsport governing bodies. The project will create impact within motor-sport.
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.
If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.
The University offers the following levels of support:
The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:
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.
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.
Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living
Submission deadline
Friday 5 February 2021
12:00AM
Interview Date
April 2021
Preferred student start date
Mid-September 2021
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