PhD Studentship: Computational Modelling of Sustainable Alloys

Loughborough University

The production of primary steel and aluminium uses a huge amount of resources and causes significant environmental damage, leading to a large effort to recycle these high-value alloys. However, the composition and microstructure of the alloys has to be tightly controlled as impurities during processing forms damaging microstructural defects and secondary phases. It is possible to add refiners and modifiers to mitigate this problem, but many of the existing additions have been discovered by chance. To allow more control of structure during the solidification stage as the amount of recycled content is increased, a more rational understanding of the additions would advance the science for sustainable alloys and enhance metal recyclability. This research will bring about environmental and economic benefits, and play an important part in accelerating the progression towards net zero in the UK and globally.

In this PhD project, the student will lead on computational methods, including molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, to understand, at the atomic scale, the ‘modifying’ effect of minor additions on second phase formation and growth by assessing, e.g., their influence on the solid/liquid interfacial free energy. The project involves working within a larger team that will verify the models using electron microscopy and xray techniques (both on the laboratory scale and at central facilities).

This project forms part of an ambitious and collaborative EPSRC-funded project (Artificial Intelligence X-ray Imaging for Sustainable Metal Manufacturing - AIXISuMM) which combines research expertise at Loughborough University, The University of Oxford and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). The project will offer the opportunity to work in collaboration with researchers at the other institutions.

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, typically in the physical sciences or engineering. Experience of computer simulation, or programming, would be beneficial.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding information:
The studentship is for 3.5 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum (24/25 rate) plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Excellent International candidates are eligible for a full international fee waiver from the University, however due to UKRI funding rules, no more than 30% of the studentships funded by this grant can be awarded to International candidates.

How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Department of Materials. Please quote the advertised reference number: MP-JC-2522 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.