PhD scholarship in 'Structures and Materials': Manufacturing Alloys with Refined Microstructure through Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD) for High strength and Radiation Resistance

This project will deploy SPD techniques in a novel way for manufacturing materials with refined grains which will have potentially enhanced mechanical properties and improved radiation tolerance. The aim of this project is to manufacture novel materials with high strength and radiation tolerance using SPD techniques, characterize them with advanced techniques such as scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), irradiate them with high energy particles such as He or heavy ions (e.g. Fe, Ni, Cr, etc.), and study the changes in mechanical properties due to the irradiation through nano-indentation in situ micro-mechanical testing. The project provides opportunities to collaborate with ANSTO and universities and institutes in the UK and Germany. Knowledge and background in Solid Mechanics, Structural Mechanics, Engineering Materials, and Finite Element Analysis are desirable.