New PhD opportunity

Synthesis and Parametric study of Self-healing Rubber

We are currently seeking an outstanding and committed graduate to undertake research leading to the award of a PhD from the University of Strathclyde. This PhD position is open to candidates of all nationalities.

Development of novel self-healing materials is an important technological area in the UK. These materials offer attractive material performance in erosion resistance, structural integrity, and surface protection. A typical self-healing material is characterised by its ability to recover from damage. By carefully tailoring healing mechanisms during material synthesis, the physiochemical properties of the final material can be manipulated for a specific application.

At Strathclyde, we are developing abrasion-resistant self-healing rubber for processing equipment. Current natural rubber lining has a short life-span under aggressive processing condition, leading to high maintenance costs and potential damage to the processing equipment. Over the past decades, extensive R&D effort can be seen on improving fundamental understanding of material wear as well as developing more abrasive-resistant materials. Much of it has been focused on the attempt of making the materials more wear resistant in a passive manner. More recently, a relatively more proactive approach has been attracting increasing attention through bio-inspired self-healing processes. This approach to the repair of structures is inspired by that of living organisms. The development of self-healing rubber for this application will be a ‘game-changer’.

A full description of the position, including funding notes, can be found on FindAPhD.