About the project
This project aims to develop magnesium (Mg) alloys as the lightest structural material for automotive industries. This will promote the reduction of carbon emissions towards net zero by addressing one main challenge in industrial applications: poor formability.
In response to escalating environmental regulations, industrial sectors have to take action and curtail carbon emissions. Magnesium (Mg) alloys, as the lightest structural metallic material, are becoming more popular in research and application in areas to reduce weight. For example lightweight automotive roof panels and seat frames.
You'll also explore new manufacturing methods to deliver magnesium products efficiently that align with the net-zero strategy. The project's 3 objectives are to:
- evaluate the samples using micro-hardness, tensile test and immersion corrosion test as well as microstructure characterisation
- investigate the alloys’ recrystallisation and mechanical behaviour
- optimise the thermomechanical processing parameters to improve Mg alloys formability without sacrifice of the strength in the end
The outcome of this project will expand the applications of light Mg alloys with high formability and reduce the product cost of Mg alloys.
Your PhD experience and training will include:
- solid training in light alloy metallurgy, advanced electron microscope characterisation and microstructure analysis
- part of the Engineering Materials team and access to National X-ray Computed Tomography (NXCT) at the University
- collaboration opportunities with our industry partners and academic collaborators
- secondment position in an industrial partner subject to obtaining an excellent research outcome
- the opportunity for paid PGR demonstrator experience, this will allow you to earn extra income
This extra income could be used to support you while you apply for Associate Fellowship awarded by AdvanceHE. This Fellowship will strongly enhance your CV when you apply for the Lecturer across the world.
