Role of Defects on Mechanical Behaviour of Single Crystal Superalloys

ARCANE is a collaborative research project across three leading UK universities and Rolls-Royce plc. The project aims to develop the state-of-the-art scientific understanding of nucleation defect formation within directionally solidified single crystal (SX) castings, and their role in the reduction in mechanical performance, through novel experimental methods, computational materials engineering modelling tools and machine learning methods. The project brings together world-leading experts in both academia and industry, across fields including superalloy metallurgy, microstructure characterisation, investment casting processing, computational modelling of casting processes at a macro-scale / component level and at a dendritic growth level, and machine learning methods for process optimisation.

Title: Role of Defects on Mechanical Behaviour of Single Crystal Superalloys

Description: Aerospace and aeroengine manufacturers have utilised single crystal (SX) casting technologies for manufacturing critical components, given the performance in strength that a single crystal casting possesses, compared to polycrystalline material. Defects within a SX casting will cause a loss of mechanical performance. This PhD will assess the impact in the mechanical properties for a high performance SX superalloy, based upon a selection of criterion, including defect type, size, location.

This PhD will require the student to undertake:

• High fidelity mechanical testing of SX superalloys with and without defects present • Microstructure characterisation of Ni-base SX superalloys, and defects within the SX casting.

Candidates should have a 1st class or 2:1 Undergraduate degree or a Masters degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, or within a related Science & Engineering discipline. A background in microstructural characterisation, computational modelling methods, and/or advanced mechanical testing would be advantageous.

The School of Metallurgy & Materials at the University of Birmingham is committed to promote diversity, equality and inclusivity within our staff and student populations. We believe there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham student and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups within materials science and engineering.

To apply for this PhD studentship, please provide: curriculum vitae (CV), Cover Letter summarising your research interests and suitability for the position, and the contact details of two Referees. Please send to Professor Roger Reed, one of the Work Package lead Investigators for the Prosperity Partnership ARCANE project, at the project’s dedicated contact email: ARCANE@contacts.bham.ac.uk