PhD Studentship: Effect of Geometric Features and Dielectric Permittivity on Electromagnetic Surface Wave Propagation in Non-metallic Materials

Location: Huddersfield and NSIRC

Funding for: Students worldwide

Details: This project is funded by University of Huddersfield, Lloyds Register Foundation, National Structural Integrity Research Centre (NSIRC), and TWI. The funding covers the cost of Home tuition fees and a standard tax-free RCUK stipend for three years. Non-EU students are welcome to apply, but the funding will only cover the cost of overseas tuition fees and the applicant needs to self-fund their living cost for three years.

Entry requirements: Candidates should have a minimum 2.1 degree in a relevant subject, or an equivalent overseas degree in (academic and industry requirements). Overseas applicants should also submit IELTS results (minimum 6.5) if applicable.

Project description

We are looking for candidates with enthusiasm for multidisciplinary collaboration.

TWI has recently developed and patented a technology (GB2522344A and US10090715B2), which has the potential to replace communication wiring. It is a technology where the composite structure itself is used for data communication without the use of wiring harnesses. Information is carried by electromagnetic surface waves (EMSW) trapped at interfaces in the composite structure.

The understanding of the effect of the local differences in dielectric permittivity is critical when deciding whether an existing composite structure is compatible with EMSW. The study focuses mainly on glass fibre composites with different resin types. These will be both thermoset and thermoplastic resins, making the solution attractive to both aerospace and automotive industries. Resins with varying dielectric permittivity will be used for the assessment.

The internal structure of aircraft and vehicles have complex geometric features such as stringers, thickness changes, and different types of joints. The effects of these features on the EMSW propagation need to be investigated. The mechanism of signal propagation is to be explored and a numerical model will be developed to allow geometric features to be designed to be compatible with EMSW propagation without compromising their structural integrity.

Project Outline

Objectives

• Understand the influence of dielectric permittivity on surface wave propagation in composites.
• Understand the influence of geometric features on surface wave propagation in composites.
• Develop a predictive model for surface wave propagation in complex shaped composite structures.

Approach

• Carry out a literature review on the effect of dielectric permittivity on electromagnetic surface wave propagation in non-metallic materials and the influence of geometric features.
• Design and carry out experiments, including design of experiments approach, and set-up.
• Develop a method for evaluating the dielectric permittivity in anisotropic materials.
• Explore the effect of the dielectric permittivity on the signal propagation.
• Explore the effect of the geometric features on the signal propagation.
• Develop a numerical model for electromagnetic surface wave propagation through geometric features.

This is exciting opportunity for a student to join TWI Technology Centre (Wales), that specialises in the development and application of state-of-the-art non-destructive testing methods, and Centre for Efficiency and Performance Engineering (CEPE) at the University of Huddersfield that has strong record in applied research in the academic/industrial sectors. NSIRC is a state-of-the-art engineering facility established and managed by structural integrity specialist TWI.

If you wish to discuss details informally, please contact: Prof. Pavlos Lazaridis, email: p.lazaridis@hud.ac.uk

Applications should include Curriculum Vitae, two reference letters, degree transcripts to date, and certificates of all relevant academic and/or any professional qualifications.

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