Hybrid additive/subtractive manufacturing technology: advanced ceramic manufacturing for aero-applications (Ref: FP-ES-2026-2)

About the Project

This project aims to develop the material mix and process parameter to successfully 3D print advanced ceramics on a hybrid multi-material manufacturing technology. This technology consists of an extrusion-based additive manufacturing capable of extruding ceramic pellets and thermoplastic material, and a vertical three-axis high-RPM milling machine, capable of manufacturing highly complex, most accurate, and enclosed products, where internal structures are not accessible to the machine after full 3D printing and need to be machined while printing. The multi-material AM technology offers a solvent-dissolvable support structure, to remove after manufacturing, and before firing the final ceramic component. The focus of this project is to use this equipment to develop pre-print, printing, machining, post-print, and verification parameters. boron nitride and its emerging application in complex circuit boards and heatsinks in aero and RF technologies.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Ehsan Sabet e.sabet@lboro.ac.uk

Entry requirements:

Students should have a first-class degree in material science, ceramics, chemical engineering, polymers, or relevant subject areas, with an excellent understanding of additive manufacturing, ceramic components, g-codes, and design of experiment. A master's degree in a complementary field, different from the undergraduate major, or Experience in ceramic manufacturing and binder design, or CNC machining parameters.

Funding information:

The studentship is funded by ALP Engineering Services AG and Loughborough University for 3 years and will provides a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.

Closing date of advert: 30th June 2026

Start date: October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years