Repeated impacts on composite aero-structures (sponsored by Rolls-Royce)

Aerospace composite components are subject to a multitude of seemingly minor impact threats, for example due to ice shedding or hailstones. Over a part’s lifetime, this can result in millions of such impacts. Whilst no single impact at this energy is sufficient to cause degradation, it is known that repeated loading can lead to fatigue of the material and ultimately failure. There is very limited research into repeated impacts, especially those occurring below the damage initiation threshold, hence you will address an unexplored gap in understanding. Working closely with project sponsor Rolls-Royce within our Composites University Technology Centre you will take a combined experimental and numerical approach to:

• Investigate repeated loading under low velocity to establish the material’s damage threshold and establish the threshold of initiation and evolution of damage.
• Provide numerical damage models based on the Bristol Composites Institute’s comprehensive experience to predict the onset and progression of damage, as well as to understand the mechanisms and drives for damage development.
• Undertake higher strain rate testing, via the use of a drop weight impactor and gas gun to provide understanding of potential rate effects, ensuring the research is relevant for real-world impact loading scenarios.
• Establish impact fatigue allowables for composite component design, to unlock more sustainable and efficient aircraft designs with reduced engine power requirements.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum a 2:1 MEng or merit at Masters level or equivalent in engineering, physics or chemistry. Applicants without a master’s qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree and performance at interview.

To apply please submit a personal statement, outlining your experience and why you are interested in PhD/EngD project, your CV and transcript of results to https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/. Please do not submit a project description; this is unnecessary as the project is already defined. Please select PhD in Advanced Composites and enter Professor Janice Barton the Director of the CDT as the 2^nd supervisor (janice.barton@bristol.ac.uk)