Supervisors: Dr. Justin Dirrenberger (CNAM) and Associate Prof. Andrey Molotnikov (RMIT)
Project 1: Multiphysics Modelling of Bioinspired Materials
This project will be focused on the understanding of mechanically coupled physical phenomena in biological materials and the design through bioinspiration of architectured materials exploiting such coupling between physics for engineering applications. While being mainly concerned by the computational implementation of multiphysics models and the determination of effective properties through homogenization, we will also develop convincing experiments to quantify the mechanical performance of the architectured materials of interest in this project.
Project 2: Laser-Architectured Light Alloys for Aerospace Applications
This project will focus on the modelling, design, & processing of architectured materials made of light alloys suitable for structural applications in aerospace and space launchers. It will include experimentally quantifying the applicability of localized laser heat treatment to light alloys such as Aluminium and Titanium based alloys, characterizing their microstructures, as well as testing of their mechanical properties. Finally computational models will be developed as guiding tools for the design of future aerospace structural components.
Project 3: Temperature-Responsive Multipolymer Interlocking Materials
This project will develop new classes of architectured hybrid materials with improved mechanical and physical properties, notably impact strength and acoustic damping. They are based on the design and production of complex, topologically-interlocking shapes and multi-material structures using recent advances in 3D polymer printing. These ensembles are also designed to be held together by shape memory alloys and polymers, which can be stimulated to change their properties – and therefore those of the ensemble – by the application of heat. These materials target applications in protective wear, as well as noise and vibration abatement.
