PhD Studentship in Economics

Lasers and the Circular Economy

High powered lasers are not routinely linked with the circular economy, however intelligent application of these highly controllable and flexible materials processing systems has great potential to advance the move towards a circular economy.

Two distinct aspects are expected to be included in the project, though there is scope to expand to other areas and to adjust the balance between topics depending on the candidate's specific interest and in light of results obtained during the project:

• Disassembly and reuse of end of life composite components
• Recycling of high value waste as feedstock in laser cladding

Project Overview

Previous work has successfully demonstrated laser cutting of carbon fibre composites (CFRP). This project explores how this process can be exploited in end of life disassembly.

The contactless nature of laser processing means that laser systems are highly flexible. Different materials and component geometries are accommodated by simply reprogramming the laser path and processing parameters, meaning one laser cutting system can disassemble any component geometry.

The ability of the same laser to cut through both fibre reinforced composites and metal enables multi material assemblies to be processed, which is a key requirement.

Research Areas

Multiple advanced manufacturing processes make use of metallic powder-based feedstocks.

The materials used tend to be inherently expensive, with the need to use them in powder form further adding to that expense.

This project will explore new strategies for using recycled feedstock in laser cladding. These include, but are not limited to:

• Collection and reuse of powder
• Blending recycled and virgin powder
• Repurposing of machining scrap and waste wire as feedstock

The project builds on existing proof-of-concept work.

Research Experience and Facilities

This largely experimental PhD will provide:

• Transferable materials characterisation skills
• A grounding in advanced manufacturing techniques
• Direct experience in waste reduction and circular economy principles

This project directly benefits from:

• Recently upgraded laser materials processing facilities
• Extensive suite of materials characterisation equipment available at the university

This PhD is expected to produce a larger than average number of journal publications.

Candidate Requirements

You must be:

• A university graduate, or expecting to graduate
• With a 2.1 (or international equivalent) and/or a Masters at merit level or above

Relevant subjects include:

• Engineering
• Physics
• Materials Science
• Closely related disciplines

Funding

This is a self-funded PhD opportunity.

Therefore, you must secure your own funding for both:

• Tuition fees
• Maintenance/living costs

Funding may be obtained either privately or via scholarships from external/government funding bodies.

Eligibility and How to Apply

Open to UK and international candidates

This PhD project is open until filled

To apply, please email Dr Katy Voisey attaching:

• A cover letter
• CV
• Academic transcripts