EPSRC DTP – Deformation of engineering alloys by complex strain paths during cyclic loading

Deformation in tensile loading is usually a uniaxial deformation mode or a single strain path. However most deformation methods result in complex strain paths, such as during forging and fatigue. Fatigue failure in metals is usually caused by cyclic loading and deformation, which is accompanied by dislocation movement and slip activity in different paths. Investigation of dislocation and slip activity is needed to be able to understand the cause of fatigue failure and deformation structures after forging. Traditionally, dislocations have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy requiring time consuming sample preparation and limited volumes. However, scanning electron microscopy can also provide insight in the local distribution of geometrically necessary dislocations by characterizing lattice curvature in the crystal/grain using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The total dislocation densities can be analysed using X-ray or neutron diffraction.

The proposed PhD project aims at utilizing recent developments in-situ deformation in SEM. The student will also have the opportunity utilize other characterisation tools such as EBSD and X-ray and neutron diffraction developing a wide range of experimental skills. The materials to be explored in this project will be a range of engineering alloys.

The project will potentially require 2-3 months visits to each of our collaborating industrial and academic partners at Oxford Instruments plc, Monash University in Australia and Université de Lorraine in France, pending on obtaining travel grants.

https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/deformation-of-engineering-alloys-by-complex-strain-paths-during-cyclic-loading/?p173754

Entry Requirements:

Students with, or to achieve, a 2.1 degree or above in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder). 

How to apply:

You will need to submit an online application through our website here: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/admissions/how-to-apply/ – ensure you mention ‘EPSRC DTP’ and the title / supervisor of the project in the ‘Research Details’ section of the application.