PhD Studentship: Additive Manufacturing of Nanocomposites

Wind turbine radar interference is a growing concern within the renewable energy sector, with many wind farm applications stalling in the planning procedure due to objections from civilian and military radar operators. Current solutions to this problem are centred around new radar hardware, which requires training of new operatives, capability changes, and huge capital investment.

In order to develop a long-lasting future-proof solution to wind turbine radar interference, a material must be found which can offer high strength of absorption over a wide range. The proposed research will target the limitations of current materials and manufacturing technologies by utilising a suit of additive manufacturing methods and developing a fundamental understanding of the impact of material selection and process parameters on the microwave absorbing performance of desired systems.

The core activities of this project will be at the interface of materials science, metamaterial physics, and manufacturing to allow for the development of entirely new metamaterial microwave absorbers capable of delivering exceptional absorption across a broad spectrum of frequency ranges. The interdisciplinary nature of the work suits enthusiastic candidates who are willing to expand their knowledge beyond a single discipline.

This project will involve a comprehensive investigation of different parameters to understand the rheological properties of the mixed photocuring nanocomposite resins, the required conductivity and magnetic properties of the final material to deliver the desired results and extensive characterisation of manufactured parts using the state-of-the-art characterisation facilities at Department of Materials and Loughborough Materials Characterisation Centre (LMCC).

Funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £17,668 per annum plus tuition fees at the UK rate.  In order to qualify for UK fees, you must meet the EPSRC eligibility criteria including the minimum UK residency requirement. Due to funding restrictions, the studentship is only open to UK applicants.

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