[Denmark] PhD Scholarship in Plasticity at Technical University

PhD – Scholarship in Plasticity Department of Mechanical Engineering, Solid Mechanics Section A 3-year Ph.D. scholarship is available at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Solid Mechanics Section, from mid 2008.

Reinforcement of polymers using carbon nano-tubes or nano-sized SiC particles can be applied to increase the stiffness. For composites, in which the reinforcing fibers are on very different size scales, very high strain gradients in the matrix material near the fibers can affect the overall properties significantly.

Higher order continuum theories (strain gradient models) can be used to model the matrix material at the relevant small scale, accounting for effects of boundary layers of constrained plastic deformations around the hard reinforcing fibers. For the relatively low volume fractions used in nano reinforced materials it may prove useful to also add fibers on a larger scale. The effect of reinforcing materials with fibers on different length scales is the focus of this Ph.D. study.

The aim is to develop methods for analyzing nano- and micro-reinforced materials, through advanced numerical models accounting for the relevant small scale plastic deformation. The Solid Mechanics Section at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has a long tradition of front edge research within the area of materials mechanics, and we have close collaborations with other strong groups both in Denmark and abroad.

We offer a stimulating environment, focused on research at an international level. Candidates should have a master`s degree in engineering or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to the master`s degree in engineering.

The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. Information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies is included in the general rules of DTU, which may be obtained by application to the PhD programme office at tel: +45 45 25 11 76 or +45 45 25 11 77.

The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. Further information is available at www.mek.dtu.dk, or by contacting associate professor :
Christian Niordson,
E-mail : cn@mek.dtu.dk ,
Telp : +45 4525 4287.

Applications with enclosures in triplicate (electronic applications will not be considered) must be received no later than April 1st 2008, at 12.00 noon by :
Christian Niordson
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Technical University of Denmark
Building 404 2800 Kgs. Lyngby Denmark

Applications must include a curriculum vitae and documentation of a completed master`s degree. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.