PhD Studentship - Enhanced AM Processing Using Time Resolved 4D X-ray Computed Tomography

Supervisory team: Mark Mavrogordato, Thomas Blumensath, Andrew Hamilton

Project description

The University of Southampton’s dedicated X-ray Computed Tomography (X-CT) centre “µ-VIS” is part of the UK’s National facility for X-CT and houses some of the UK’s largest micro-focus CT scanning systems capable of unveiling sub-surface information from materials, components and structures. With strong links between both research and industry, the centre used for an extensive list of applications - please see our website for further info: www.muvis.org.

The technique is most exciting when used for “in situ” experiments. However, there are significant “real World considerations” due to the time associated with scan acquisition (the object needs to rotate) – As a result in situ experiments are often “interrupted” tests whereby the process is paused or slowed to allow information to be collected at a series of discrete time or load steps. This results in an estimated interpolation of events between capture points and possible effects due to the interruptions themselves. A compromise/decision therefore needs to be made between imaging in 3D and missing temporal changes shorter than the scan time or switching to 2D (radiography) and compromising spatially sensitive events. This project aims to “fill the gap” between full 3D CT and 2D time series radiography by using pseudo stereo image capture combined with benchmark full 3D CT scans.

The novel aspect of this project is in the acquiring of 2 “close to simultaneous” radiographic projections taken from different angles combined with base line 3D data set allowing extraction of 3D positional information of discrete points within a specimen on time scales beyond that of current capabilities. These projection points may be tracked as the dynamic process is allowed to progress uninterrupted between an initial and final state at a temporal and spatial resolution not otherwise achievable. The project is not only motivated by the capability and there will be a very strong link and interest from one of our long term industrial partners with special interest in defence and national security. This partnership will bring a strong focus to the project, as well as opportunities for future employment.

We are looking for all of the usual candidate characteristics (highly motivated, strong academic ability, capable problem solver and thinking outside of the box, fantastic communication skills, desire to learn and develop new skills) plus someone who has both strong practical as well as computational skills.

This video was really intended for undergraduate students and was created around lockdowns (hence the hair) but meet the lead supervisor Mark and hear about some of the things he get’s involved: youtu.be/5Da6W-8_gvY

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £18,622 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How to apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2023/24, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Mark Mavrogordato.

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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