Fibre composites are widely used in a range of applications, including aerospace and wind turbines, due to their light weight and high strength. Fibre composites typically use carbon or glass fibres, embedded in a thermoset polymer matrix. Thermosets are made by curing a monomer mixture e.g. epoxy and hardener molecules, to form a cross-linked network. Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) are new, sustainable alternatives to thermosets, where bond exchange can occur under specific conditions, such as high temperature or UV radiation. This enables the CAN to be reprocessed, and potentially facilitate easier separation of fibre and polymer matrix for recycling. 

The interface between the matrix and fibre is a weak point of the material. Fibres are functionalised (sized) to improve their dispersion into the resin/matrix. The presence of fibres in the resin prior to curing may lead to inhomogeneity in the resin liquid structure near the fibre surface, affecting the network formation near the fibre surface, and hence the fibre-network adhesion and mechanical properties. To strengthen the interfacial adhesion, it is necessary to understand the fibre-matrix interfacial structure. The interface is extremely difficult to characterise experimentally, so simulations can be used to gain insight at the molecular level and submicron length scales. 

This project will use a coarse-grained model and molecular dynamics simulations to simulate network formation at a fibre surface. The model can be further developed to allow bond exchange and simulate CANs. The effect of fibre functionalisation on thermoset/CAN formation and interfacial structure will be explored.

In addition to undertaking cutting edge research, students are also registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

Further information about the Chemical and Process Engineering department

Further information about the Chemical and Process Engineering PhD