Kinetics-Driven Design of Advanced Aluminium Alloys ˗ Optimisation of heat treatment strategies - EPSRC IDLA STUDENTSHIP

Constellium, a global leader in aluminium manufacturing and innovation, seeks to advance its capabilities by placing greater emphasis on thermo-mechanical process optimization and precipitate kinetics engineering. The design and optimization of aluminium alloys have traditionally relied on compositional tuning – adding or adjusting alloying. This requires tight compositional control hard to ensure, especially, with high-scrap content. This Ph.D. proposal aims to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates kinetic modelling and optimized thermal strategies to revolutionize aluminium alloy development – moving from a composition-centric approach to a thermal process-driven methodology.

Objectives:

Critically evaluate the limitations of conventional alloy development routes based on alloying element variation.

• Support and validate previous findings and experiments.§ Implement advanced kinetic models to predict Thermo-Mechanical Ageing (TMA) condition for specific desired properties of high-scrap aluminium alloys.§ Design and validate tailored thermal treatment paths (Solutionizing, quenching, ageing and interrupted ageing, etc.).
• Establish processing-microstructure-property relationships using experimental data and supported by modelling predictions.
• Develop a digital decision-support tool to guide the UTC team doing proper heat treatment schedules based on kinetics predictions and desired mechanical property targets.

Expected results and impact:

This Ph.D. project is expected to develop high-scrap-content alloys and enhance digital, AI-integrated recycling by optimising process windows and thermal paths instead of focusing solely on chemical composition. Once specific mechanical properties - like yield strength and elongation - are identified for an application, a digital tool, for example, will recommend the suitable high-scrap alloy, its thermo-mechanical treatments, CO2 emissions, and energy consumption. By shifting the emphasis from "chemical control" to "kinetics and thermal process control," we seek to redefine high-performance, scrap-tolerant aluminium alloy design. This will help reduce environmental impact and energy costs.

Eligibility

Minimum of a 2:1 MEnG/MsC in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Materials Engineering. Candidates with a 1st BEng in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Materials Engineering will also be considered.

How to apply

• Your up-to-date CV;
• A 300 to 500-word personal statement setting out why you are a suitable candidate, i.e.:your skills and experience
• Your degree certificates and transcripts (translated into English, if appropriate);
• Evidence of English language skills to an overall score of IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent), if appropriate
• Name and contact details for two referees, one of which must be an academic referee.
• Equal Opportunities