Multiphysics modeling of degradation in next-generation thermal barrier coatings

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr. Isha Gupta

This project investigates the failure mechanics of next-generation thermal barrier coatings produced by suspension plasma spray and solution precursor plasma spray, an area where computational modelling remains largely unexplored. It will develop multiphysics models of degradation under extreme thermal and chemical conditions to guide high-performance coating design for aerospace and energy.

Advanced thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), are essential for protecting components under ultra-high temperatures in aerospace, energy, and defence applications. As gas turbines push toward even higher operating temperatures to improve efficiency and sustainability, understanding the mechanisms of coating degradation under extreme thermal and chemical conditions is increasingly critical.

This project focuses on next-generation TBCs produced by suspension plasma spray (SPS) and solution precursor plasma spray (SPPS). These cost-effective techniques create strain-tolerant coating architectures designed to mitigate failure under severe thermal loads. While experimental studies have investigated coating performance, the underlying degradation mechanisms remain poorly understood due to a lack of modelling efforts.

The project will develop robust multiphysics models to describe degradation of these next-generation TBCs under gas-turbine-relevant conditions, including thermal cycling, prolonged high-temperature exposure, and chemical attack by molten sand deposits such as calcia–magnesia–alumino–silicate (CMAS). This research will model the resulting cracking and delamination, explicitly accounting for microstructural features unique to SPS and SPPS coatings. Modelling may be complemented by hands-on testing and damage characterization to provide a comprehensive understanding of coating performance.

You'll join a dynamic team bridging aerospace and materials research, with access to high-performance computing and state-of-the-art experimental facilities. By linking microstructure, thermomechanics, and performance, this project offers an excellent opportunity to tackle critical challenges in next-generation turbine technologies, with potential impact on industry leaders such as Rolls-Royce and Siemens.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following:

• mechanical engineering
• materials engineering
• aerospace engineering

Experience in computational mechanics or multiphysics modelling, with a particular focus on fracture mechanics and chemo-mechanical degradation, is essential.

A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for multidisciplinary research in mechanics of materials and aerospace engineering are desirable.

Fees and funding

We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

Contact us

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

If you have a general question, feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk.

Project leader

For an initial conversation, Isha.Gupta@soton.ac.uk.