Digital image correlation for determining material's constitutive properties PhD

The research in this doctoral opportunity will investigate the relationship between material elastic and thermal properties by using high resolution digital imaging under dynamic loads.

Digital image correlation is an effective tool to characterize material properties. The analysis of the images can provide a fair assessment about the changes in material behaviour under different operational conditions. However, these changes are more often reported under quasi-static loads. The use of imaging is quite effective to determine the changes in elastic and thermal properties of materials; but still more research is required to establish the inter-dependencies between these properties with the help of high resolution images.

In this research, different sets of composites material will be dynamically loaded in a lab setup. High resolution cameras will be installed to capture the elastic and thermal changes in the material during the loads. Distinct experimental scheme will be designed initially to enlist the main elastic and thermal properties. Later, the experiments will be performed and results will be analysed to empirically relate the elastic and thermal behaviour of the selected material.

Entry Requirements:
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area (e.g. aerospace, automotive, mechanical, and manufacturing) with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a three-year period of study
- A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 6.5)
- Excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills
- Self-motivated, independent and team player
- Genuine enthusiasm for the subject and technology
- Willingness to publish research findings in international journals

Funding: Self-funded

Supervisors: Dr Muhammad Khan and Professor Andrew Starr

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of the Cranfield Doctoral Network, which brings together research students and staff to share ideas, identify opportunities for collaboration, and create communities of practice. Students are also expected to attend the Doctoral Researchers' Core Development (DRCD) Programme, comprising four one-week units covering key stages of the research journey.