PhD Study : Advancing composite preforming technologies for complex loaded maritime structures

Summary

The Belfast Maritime Consortium, a mix of industry and academia, led by Artemis Technologies and supported by the UK Research and Innovation Strength in Places Fund are working towards decarbonisation of the maritime industry.  This is being achieved through the development of new zero emissions hydrofoiling ferries that will revolutionise the future of maritime transport.

Publication of official statistics for  level of greenhouse gases reveal overall they reduced by 2% over 2018 while the transport industry experienced a decline of only 1%. This must improve especially given the bold targets set by government, particularly around maritime craft with a commitment that all new vessels from 2025 should be designed with zero-emissions capabilities.

A key problem however is that many of the technologies required to make that happen don’t yet exist, at least not at the requisite scale and commercial viability to meet the demands of the project. Composite materials are a crucial contributor to achieving the strength and weight requirements for hydrofoiling vessels with the scale of the proposed ferries posing an interesting challenge.   The hydrofoil system is a key focus within this due to the complex loading conditions and environment which it is exposed to.

3D woven composites indicate significant potential to effectively meet the requirements of such a structure due the technology’s through thickness reinforcement reducing delamination, near net-shape preforming aiding manufacture, ability to embed sensors and the significant capability of tailoring the weave architecture to meet the physical and structural requirements of the application. All of these provide excellent potential for pushing the technology to create innovative solutions for this maritime project. To this effect, this PhD will investigate the use of 3D woven composites for complex maritime structures with an aim to develop increased material understanding and methodologies.

This will include:

*Development of understanding and methodologies for production of morphing structures to enhance control of the hydrofoil

*Investigation of preform architecture transitions within a single preform such as variation in thickness and through thickness reinforcement

*Manufacturing and experimental analysis of composites samples to investigate mechanical, physical and quality properties.

The knowledge and advancements of 3D weaving technology generated through this project will contribute to developing the technology future maritime transportation vessels and can be implanted within other industries.  The project provides the student an excellent opportunity to provide a valuable contribution to a live industrial project working alongside large and small industrial partners. To accomplish the project the student will be trained to gain expertise and knowledge in the areas of 3D woven composites, weaving processes, testing design, materials characterisation and analysis.

Requirements:  This project is well suited for someone with a high interest in advanced materials investigation with industrial application.  A skills background from materials, mechanical engineering, textiles or any other related engineering field is beneficial.

FUNDING/ELIGIBILITY:

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £15,500 (tbc) per annum for three years.

Please note that only applicants who meet the UK residency requirements are eligible to apply for this award.

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

This project is funded by:

• UKRI (Strength in Places)

FUNDING/ELIGIBILITY:

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £15,500 (tbc) per annum for three years.

Please note that only applicants who meet the UK residency requirements are eligible to apply for this award.