PhD in ABA Laser Cladding

ABA cladding is a variant of laser cladding that was recently developed at The University of Nottingham. By generating clad coatings by first depositing parallel but separated "A" clads and then filling in the valleys formed with "B" clads we have already demonstrated improved material deposition efficiencies compared to conventional cladding.

This project will expand understanding of the full potential of ABA cladding. There are many aspects that can be explored, and these can be tailored according to the specific interests of the successful candidate. Potential areas of work include:

• Multi-material clads, where the A clads are formed from a different material to the B clads
• Control of final surface topography
• Generation of functionally graded coatings
• The inclusion of pre-placed elements
• Development of a process model

This project directly benefits from our recently upgraded laser materials processing facilities as well as the universities extensive suite of materials characterisation equipment. This largely experimental PhD will provide transferable materials characterisation skills, including optical and scanning electron microscopy. The successful candidate will also learn advanced communication skills via preparing and presenting their work at both academic conferences and in journal publications. This PhD is expected to produce a larger than average number of journal publications.

Candidate requirements

You must be a university graduate, or be expecting to graduate, with a 2.1 (or international equivalent) and / or a masters at merit level or above in a relevant subject (engineering, physics, or materials science or closely related disciplines).

Funding

This is a self-funded PhD opportunity therefore you must secure your own funding for both fees and maintenance either privately or via a scholarship from external/government funding bodies.

Eligibility and how to apply

Open to UK and international candidates.

This PhD project is open until filled. To apply please email Dr Katy Voisey at katy.voisey@nottingham.ac.uk attaching a cover letter, CV and academic transcripts.