Bioinspired Surfaces to improve the Hydrodynamic Drag Performance of Ships

This fully funded PhD project focuses on developing bioinspired low-friction surfaces for the underwater sections of ship hulls by employing both numerical and experimental techniques. Additionally, it will consider the feasibility of scaling these surfaces for practical applications.

The marine industry is actively seeking solutions to enhance the hydrodynamic drag performance of ships. Two main approaches are generally adopted:

a) improving the friction characteristics of the hull surface through coatings, and

b) enhancing the antifouling properties of hull coatings.

Traditionally, fouling has been mitigated through chemical treatments designed to repel bio-organisms from attaching to the hull. This approach improves operational efficiency, reduces fuel consumption, and minimizes maintenance time. However, as the industry seeks more effective methods to prevent the growth of a wide spectrum of marine species simultaneously, concerns about toxicity to marine life, biodegradation in aquatic environments, and other environmental impacts have become major challenges. Several regulatory bodies have already addressed these issues, highlighting the need for bioinspired solutions.

Numerous nature-inspired surface textures and geometrical patterns have demonstrated significant improvements in tribological behaviour. Microscopic surface features hold great potential for reducing friction and enhancing tribological properties. A deeper understanding of the micro- and nano-scale hierarchical patterns influencing tribological and wetting behaviours is essential for achieving superior performance. Surface texturing offers substantial opportunities for improving friction reduction, and bioinspired biomaterials may pave the way for the development of low-friction surfaces.

During this PhD, the candidate will collaborate with the National Manufacturing Institute of Scotland (NMIS) and will have access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities, including the Slime Farm, the Fully Turbulent Flow Channel (FTFC), and the towing tank at the Kelvin Hydrodynamics Laboratory.

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants should have or expect to achieve a first-class honours degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics.