Applications are invited for an EPSRC-CASE PhD studentship based within the School of Engineering, Computing and Maths at University of Exeter and funded by EADS Innovation Works UK and EPSRC. The project is in close technical collaboration with Airbus.
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2007, EADS generated revenues of € 39.1 billion and employed a workforce of about 116,000. The Group includes the leading aircraft manufacturer Airbus, the world's largest helicopter supplier Eurocopter and EADS Astrium, the European leader in space programmes from Ariane to Galileo. Its Defence & Security Division is a provider of comprehensive systems solutions and makes EADS the major partner in the Eurofighter consortium as well as a stakeholder in the missile systems provider MBDA. EADS also develops the A400M through Airbus Military.
Project description
Building upon a number of patents pending, the project proposes to investigate the development of unique high potential carbon nanotubes (CNT) polymer composite structures with a high potential for application in aerospace industry.
The research will include growing CNT forests (in the newly developed CNT lab at Exeter) and application of Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM) principles and technology for manufacturing of the new CNT composites.
CNTs are of great interest for the next generation of composite materials due to their exceptional mechanical and physical properties.
ALM is highly novel, disruptive technology that will lead to major changes in the way a diverse range of engineering components are manufactured, using direct deposition of materials to create structures in an additive manner. Due to its versatility it is possible to process various polymer, metal and composite materials, constructing complex geometries such as cellular and hierarchical structures. ALM thus has potential for direct manufacture of high performance aerospace components.
The project aims to address: 1. An approach towards making fully aligned and dispersed bulk CNT/polymer composites which is to date not yet possible. 2. An approach towards the application of an additive layer manufacturing philosophy; with the goal of eventual exploitation in ALM methods and equipment.
Eligibility
Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a 1st Class or Upper 2nd Class Honours degree in materials science, engineering, chemistry or physics. The successful candidate will be based at the University of Exeter, but will have the opportunity to spend time at EADS and Airbus.
The successful student will have the chance to work with industry and to become highly skilled in manufacturing of novel nanocomposite structures.
The studentship is for 3 years and includes a subsistence grant of £12,923 per annum with all fees paid for home / EU students. Applications from candidates outside the EU will not be considered.
Application forms are available at http://www.admin.ex.ac.uk/personnel/jobs/app_eo_form.rtf.
Closing date: 30 April 2009
