Dr David Bryce, Research Associate, Laboratory Manager

Research Biography

David’s PhD research focused on fundamental research of the composite interphase region, a key parameter in composite material performance. This work investigated the effects of fibre sizing and processing parameters and was funded by wind turbine manufacturer Suzlon. Other areas of research interest include sizing performance at high temperatures and polymer curing behaviour.

Current Project

David is currently undertaking an IAA Innovation Partnership with Cubis Systems and Composites UK. The project aims to directly support ongoing technical engagement with industry partners by investigating the reuse of recycled materials into sustainable composite products.  

Dr Ramin Moradi, KTP Associate

Research Biography

Ramin’s PhD investigated power generation from low-grade heat sources using micro-scale organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems for waste heat recovery (WHR) and trigenerative (CCHP) applications. His research interests include waste recovery systems, such as heat,  agro-industrial residues, municipal solid residues, and fibre-reinforced composite materials (FRCs). He also investigates the design and modelling of energy of systems and thermal processes.

Current Project

Ramin's current KTP role involves designing, testing, and modelling the thermal processes for recycling wind turbine blade end-of-life waste. 

Chris Cameron, Laboratory manager / PhD student

Expertise

• Design, Manufacture and Analysis of laminar Fibre Reinforced Polymer structures.
• Material Selection and Manufacturing Protocols for Component Design.

Current Project

The optimal design of a light weight composite pressure vessel by use of cellular core sandwich structures

Project description

This research looks at the design and analysis of cellular core sandwich structures. These structures, in the form of plates and shells can give a much higher strength to weight ratio than their solid alternatives. The main aim of the work is to derive a theoretic protocol to analyse the efficiency of cellular core sandwich structures. A literature review of all relevant engineering theories will reveal the best stress calculation methodology to model the dominant stresses in flat plates and curved shells with cellular core sandwich structures. A finite element model will be constructed to allow visualisation of stress fields and corroboration of the results of the calculated stresses.

An experimental program will be designed and implemented. The first set of tests will be designed to find the basic material properties of the structures. The second testing program will be designed to test the plate and shell structures under pressure and will require a dedicated test rig.

The conclusion will bring theoretical, finite element and experimental results together, in order to determine the effectiveness of cellular core structures in light weight pressure vessel design.

Chris' background

After completing an engineering apprenticeship, Chris spent ten years in industry as a service engineer in the material testing and analysis. He graduated from the Open University with a BA in mathematics, before joining the University of Strathclyde in 1993 as a laboratory supervisor. Chris has since graduated from Strathclyde University with an MSc in Materials Engineering and has become the departmental laboratory manager. He has now embarked on a course of study towards a research PhD.

Sheik Abdul Malik, PhD student

Current Project

Composite manufacturing techniques with reduced cycle time and cost for automotive applications

Project description

Current part fabrication process is only good enough for low volume cars but for use in mass produced vehicles, there is a need for dramatic process improvisation. With the advent of electric cars & other mobility solutions to replace the traditional automobiles, the drive to achieve environmental & economic targets for all industry sectors is intense. The benefits of lightweight composite structures contribute to these targets. Hence it is imperative to have a feasible standardization process in place for composites manufacturing to be widely adopted in the industry.

Malik’s background:

Prior to beginning my PhD I gained experience at ACCIS, Bristol in Design for Manufacture of composites. I was responsible for developing Virtual Fabric Placement (VFP) simulation program designed for producing composite parts ‘right the first time’. Implementing the Industry 4.0 methodologies and integrating VFP with various available ICT platforms, the solution was validated and demonstrated to be useful in an industrial scale, thereby improving process efficiency and enabling a closed loop design and manufacturing cycle.

During time at Airbus I was involved in the A350 XWB winglets design and production team. Additionally, I was in charge of Long Range stress and 330 NEO programme. 

I am in pursuit of a game changing idea and am hopeful that this PhD journey will help me get closer to this goal. I’m your go to man to chase a daring new innovation. Come find me if you are on the verge of a breakthrough.

Beatriz Casares Fernández, PhD student

Current Project

Understanding the relation between the micro and macro scale interfacial strength in natural fibre composite materials

Project description

The widespread use of synthetic fibre composite materials has brought many benefits to engineering and energy development, but also many challenges. One of the latter is the environmental impact that these materials have when coming to the end of their life cycle. Developing new composite materials using natural fibres in combination with biodegradable matrices is one of the steps forward in order to achieve further development without compromising the future of our planet.

Understanding the interaction between the natural fibres with the matrix at the interface plays a key role to enhance the mechanical properties of natural-fibre composites. On one hand, tests like short beam strength or V-notched shear use specimens in order to obtain the shear properties at a macro scale level. On the other hand, the microbond test is used to measure the interfacial shear strength in an individual fibre-microdroplet system. Understanding how the results from both worlds connect and explain the interface behaviour using finite element analysis modelling will lead to finding a cost-effective coupling agent in the endeavour of pushing natural fibres to their limits.

This is a project funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering in collaboration with the National University of Colombia and Compañía de Empaques S.A. The study of the interface of fique fibre along with different thermoplastic matrices, focusing on biodegradable ones, plays a key role in the development of a new composite material reinforced with natural fibres. This new material, which aims to support structural loads, is being explored for small wind turbine blades for electrification of rural areas using local materials in South America. “

Beth Malone, PhD Student

Current Project

Advancing the understanding of the composite fibre-matrix interface through the development of automated mechanical testing

Project Description

Traditionally, the interfacial shear strength has been measured by means of manually operated single fibre tests, such as the microbond, pull-out and fragmentation tests. Each test applies a load to the fibre-matrix interface, allowing a measurement of the shear strength to be taken, providing scope for the impact of factors such as fibre coatings and environmental factors to be studied. The primary setback experienced in interface testing is the lack of standardisation, resulting in research groups having different methods and procedures for each test.

The optimisation of composite materials relies on the fundamental understanding of the interface, making the need for a standardised interface test vital. Fundamental study into the relationship between sample geometries and the respective fundamental math connected to them will be conducted, providing a basis on which to develop an analytical model suitable for the developed test. Furthermore, investigation into the contribution of residual stress to the interface strength will be carried out. The culmination of the project will be the development of a novel automated interface test system, which will allow for standard testing of the interface as well as fatigue testing.

This project is funded by Dia-Stron Limited, a market leader in the development of single filament testing instruments. Initial development and automation of Dia-Stron’s first generation microbond system (LEX820 IFSS) will form the basis for development of the final automated interface test system.

Beth's background

Beth graduated with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with aeronautics from the University of Strathclyde in June 2023, and went on to join the group in August 2023. During her final two years of study, she completed research projects investigating the effect of manufacturing process and voids on the mechanical properties on carbon fibre laminates, using experimental and computational techniques. With her design experience developed through projects completed in her undergraduate classes, she looks forward to the challenge of designing a new micromechanical test system whilst factoring in the fundamental knowledge of the composite interface developed throughout the course of this project.

Paul Nixon, PhD Student

Current Project

An Investigation of the Fibre-Matrix Interface of Laser Processed Composite Materials

Project Description

Carbon fibre reinforced polymer composites have seen consistent growth in their usage as an
aerospace material over the past several decades. Despite this, there remain significant gaps in our knowledge and understanding of the micro-mechanical parameters that govern the structure-property relationships within these materials.
There has been no investigation into how the laser perforation of a composite material affects the fibre-matrix interface of the material locally, or the extent to which this influences the overall mechanical properties of the bulk material. There has also been no investigation into the thru-life environmental and fatigue properties of a laser perforated composite material. Understanding these fundamental characteristics is central to future use of laser perforated composites. In partnership with CAV-Systems, an industry leader in laser technology for aircraft ice protection and hybrid laminar flow control systems, my project aims to conduct fundamental research to answer these key questions.

Paul's background

Paul graduated from Strathclyde with a MEng in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering in 2023. His interest in composite materials research was evident in his Masters year project, which explored the mechanical properties of various fibre reinforcements. The project had a specific focus on out-of-autoclave manufacturing methods, such as resin transfer moulding, which are gaining traction in the aerospace sector for their efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Building on this foundation, Paul has embarked on his PhD journey to further explore the field of advanced composite materials for the aerospace sector.

Lewis Kelly, PhD Student

Current Project

Investigation of the fibre-matrix interface for glass fibre and carbon fibre composites exposed to cryogenic loading and fatigue conditions 

Project Description

With multiple sectors currently evaluating the use of liquid hydrogen as a key future energy source there is significant need to establish rational design rules for the pressurised vessels that will be used to store liquid hydrogen safely. These vessels, manufactured using composite materials, will be exposed to long-term adverse environmental conditions that have not yet been fully investigated. The effect of cryogenic cycling on the fundamental fibre-matrix performance of a composite material is an unaddressed and critical parameter in the long-term structural performance of liquid hydrogen pressurised vessels.
This project aims to understand and quantify the fibre-matrix interface for current generation resin and fibre combinations, utilised in liquid hydrogen pressurised vessels. Research will span investigating the effects on the interface whilst at cryogenic temperatures, as well as the effects of repeated cryogenic cycling on the fibre-matrix interface. Funding for this project is provided by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

Lewis's background

 Driven by his pursuit of knowledge and innovation, Lewis joined the group in 2023 after graduating with a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Strathclyde. During his final two years of study, he collaborated with the polymer degradation group in which time he investigated photodegradation and thermo-oxidative degradation of thermoplastic polymers under the guidance of Professor John Liggat. This hands-on experience provided him with a solid foundation in polymer chemistry, specifically in assessing material behaviour and degradation mechanisms under harsh conditions. With his expertise, Lewis is well-equipped to deepen the understanding of the effects on the fibre-matrix interface under cryogenic loading and fatigue conditions.

Innes McKay, PhD Student

Current Project

Innovative manufacture of sustainable composites

Project Description

Recently, the composites sector has recognised the need for a new generation of renewable composite materials, and research into the use of sustainably derived polymeric compounds and natural fibre reinforcements has dramatically increased. Flax fibre is one of the most promising natural fibres due to its low environmental impact and high reported specific mechanical properties. However, there are several key shortcomings associated with flax fibre that currently prevent its widespread use as reinforcing material, including its poor compatibility with polymer matrices, moisture absorption behaviour, and flammability. These limitations must be addressed if flax fibre is to be considered a viable alternative to glass fibres as a reinforcing material.

This project aims to enhance the performance of bio-composites through the use of novel fibre treatments. The impact of treatment methodology on the mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties of flax fibre will be examined. Bio-composites will then be developed and characterised utilising treated fibres and a bio-based thermosetting/thermoplastic polymer matrix. Treatment parameters will be optimised to enhance the mechanical performance, moisture absorption behaviour, and thermal stability of resultant bio-composites. In doing so, this project will address the current shortcomings of natural fibre bio-composites, improving their functionality and expanding the scope of potential applications.

Ertug Ihsan Tanisan, PhD Student

Current Project

 3D-Printing of polymer and polymer composites for harsh environment

Project Description

Ertug is a fully funded PhD student from the National Education Ministry of the Turkish Government whose research focuses on investigating the slurry erosion behaviour of 3D-printed (fused deposition modelling) polymers and polymer composites used for application areas are exposed to slurry erosion effects such as slurry transport systems, tidal/wind turbines, aircraft and vehicles.

Ertug's background

After completing his bachelor's and master's degrees in materials science and engineering in Turkiye, he worked as a senior engineer in a company that produces traditional ceramics for 4 years. In line with his education and sector knowledge, he has gained experience in additive manufacturing, traditional/advanced ceramics production and their characterisation.

Johnattan Vargas, PhD Student

Current Project

Using thermally recycled glass fibres from wind turbine blades at the end of its life cycle to be used as reinforcement in compound products

Project Description

Wind turbine blades usually operate safely for 20 to 25 years before to be changed and discarded; however, traditional disposal methods such as landfilling represent a high cost and it is not generating added value to that industrial chain. Despite the complexity of recycling glass fibres from thermoset resin – based polymeric composite materials, various promising approaches have been proposed and implemented. Taking advantage of the ACG expertise and in-house facilities, this PhD project aims to employ thermal recycling processes to obtain the fibres from wind turbine blades at the end of its life cycle.
To use the recycled glass fibres as reinforcement to manufacture compound products requires a thorough understanding of how the recycling process affects the mechanical and physical characteristics. Additionally, since wind turbine blade waste is typically chopped prior to recycling, the length of the fibres becomes a crucial parameter. This project will focus on evaluating these characteristics to optimize the performance of the recycled fibres as reinforcement in compound products.

Johnattan's background

Johnattan is an Industrial Design Engineer with a master’s degree in Engineering – Materials and Processes. His master’s thesis focused on polymeric composite materials reinforced with fique fibres, a natural fibre widely used in Colombia for manufacturing ropes and sacks. The main aim of the project was to understand and enhance the adhesion at the interface between the fique fibres and a polyester resin.

Gregory May-Wilson, PhD Student

Current Project

The environmental resistance of glass fibre acrylic composite materials and their interface for use in structural applications

Project Description

Over the past decades there has been a rapid growth in the development and application of fibre-reinforced composite materials for use in high performance applications. This has particularly been the case when it comes to applications within the renewable energy sectors, which have become of increasing significant strategic importance to the UK (and globally) when it comes to providing cheap, consistent energy for the future. Composite materials have been traditionally used in the manufacture of the blade components due to their unique combination of material performance and light weight. 

These materials are now exposed to some of the harshest operating conditions on Earth, with specific new challenges in the offshore wind and tidal blade sectors where the issue of fatigue and erosion of the composite materials has been exposed as a major challenge requiring a solution to ensure the long-term operation of offshore systems and justify the potential high installation costs. 

This project is a collaborative PhD project, where the University of Strathclyde and National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the National manufacturing institute Scotland (NMIS) will partner to conduct fundamental research into how the fibre-matrix interface of current materials (e.g. glass fibre, epoxy and/or Elium®), can be optimised to mitigate composite fatigue performance under harsh environmental conditions, investigating the fibre-matrix interface of composite material combinations materials of commercial interest to the UK Wind and Tidal Energy sectors.

Gregory's background

Gregory graduated from the University of Glasgow with a MEng in aeronautical engineering. After a few years spent outside of academia he attended the University of Strathclyde to obtain an MSc in advanced materials engineering, where he worked on his masters year project with the ACG to test bio-based sizings for recycled glass fibres which sparked his interest in glass fibre composites

Alexander Payne, PhD Student

Current Project

An investigation of the fibre-matrix interface and self-healing capability of vitrimer-based polymer fibre-reinforced composites

Project Description

There is growing demand for recyclable fibre-reinforced composite materials for use in higher performance applications. Composite materials already make a critical contribution to sustainability and the circular economy, playing a key role in the structural optimisation and light-weighting required to increase energy efficiency, but are constrained by limited end-of-life options due to the polymers used. This challenge has been highlighted in the UK wind energy sector. Moving to more sustainable long-term options is of global importance but must be founded on fundamental science. In order to optimize performance of first generation recyclable composite materials it is necessary to better understand, and quantify, the micro-mechanical parameters that govern the structure-property relationships within these materials. 
Vitrimers represent a relatively new and exciting class of polymer material capable of self-healing and shape reprocessing at temperatures above their topology freezing temperature. This enables vitrimers to possess enhanced thermomechanical performance, comparable to thermosets, but with the capability of being recycled like a thermoplastic at high temperatures.

This project is co-funded by Boeing, the National Manufacturing Institute of Scotland (NMIS) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Alexander's background

Alexander graduated with a BEng Hons. in Aero-Mechanical Engineering from the University of Strathclyde in June 2025. His undergraduate project, titled 'The Effect of Gold-Coating GFRPs in Examining Residual Stresses as a Key Bonding Mechanism Within the Fibre-Matrix Interface', was awarded the IMechE 'Best Project Award'. During his undergraduate degree, Alexander was involved and responsible for the running of the Strathclyde Aerospace Innovation Society (StrathAIS), one of the largest student-led aerospace societies in the UK. 

Kanan Ojagov, PhD Student

Project Description

Carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer composites are essential for high-performance applications in aerospace and automotive sectors, yet their thermoset matrices pose major challenges in recyclability and damage repair, leading to significant waste and energy-intensive end-of-life processes. This project focuses on developing sustainable alternatives by investigating reversible bio-based fibre coatings that enhance composite durability in service, enable damage repair and allow efficient recyclability under mild processing conditions. Key activities include improving fibre-matrix interfacial bonding, evaluating mechanical performance through experimental testing and employing computational modelling to optimise composite behaviour under loading. The research ultimately seeks to deliver recyclable composites that retain high structural performance while minimising environmental impact and supporting a circular economy.

Kanan's background

Kanan recently graduated from the MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering with Aerospace programme at the University of Strathclyde, earning the IMechE Past Presidents’ Prize for Best MSc Student across all on-campus taught postgraduate programmes. His previous research delivered a comprehensive experimental characterization of recycled carbon fibres, achieving up to 97% tensile strength retention and 93% interfacial shear strength via oxidative recycling. At Wessington Cryogenics, Kanan drove the standardization of cryogenic vessels as well as their design with rigorous FEA testing for structural integrity under extreme thermal loads, while optimizing material selection for cryogenic compatibility, and compliance with safety standards. Kanan served as an Innovation Researcher at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), where he contributed to frameworks enhancing innovation. Leveraging his expertise, Kanan is now pioneering his PhD to engineer recyclable carbon-fibre composites that redefine sustainability.

Ruadan Geraghty, PhD Student

Project Description

Ruadan is currently undertaking a PhD on ‘Recycling of Wind Turbine Blade’; investigating the circularity of this industry and how value of the composite materials can be maintained. His focus will be on the application of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Circularity Indicators to this area, and how these can be optimised to increase accuracy whilst balancing accessibility.

Ruadan's background

Ruadan has worked on the sustainability of composite materials for several years, through the Marine-i project at the University of Plymouth, and as Research Engineer at the National Composite Centre.