PhD Studentship: Self-tuneable Metasurfaces for Self-powered Sensing and Vibration Absorption

The use of metasurfaces has gained increasing popularity across various applications, particularly in optics, acoustics and earthquake engineering, due to their special properties such as the meta-device thickness reduction (i.e., compared to 3D metamaterials) and intrinsic wave manipulating behaviour. In parallel, autonomous wireless sensor networks are rapidly evolving within the context of Industry 4.0, aiming to connect physical assets via the Internet of Things (IoT). Energy harvesting technology, capable of harnessing energy from ambient sources like solar, thermal, vibrations, and wind, provides a promising solution for powering these networks. Recent advances in device efficiency further enhance the feasibility of this approach.

Moreover, integrated vibration (or noise) isolation can simultaneously convert harmful vibrations into electrical energy for powering wireless sensors and enhance isolation efficiency in medium-to-large-scale systems. This dual functionality has prompted significant interest in developing nonlinear devices that can both harvest low-frequency energy and isolate vibrations. While this concept is theoretically sound, its practical implementation remains challenging, especially in designing a versatile system capable of either absorbing or amplifying vibrations (or noise) based on specific application needs.

The presentation of metasurfaces for self-powered sensing (IoT) and vibration reduction is still limited in the available literature (they are mainly used for light and electromagnetic wave absorption and reflection). Thus, a key challenge is to design concepts of metasurfaces using an economical and environmentally friendly approach so that they can be effectively used within a wide range of operating conditions (dynamics) of the host system for self-powered sensing node development (as vibration or sound energy harvesters) at miniaturised scale (mm) and for noise and vibration absorption at a larger scale (tens of cm). Additionally, the exploration of different materials for stimulus detection like motion, acoustic wave or gas opens new avenues by introducing an additional “dimension” to the concept.

In this project, we propose to design smart, self-tuneable metasurfaces (inspired by their unique characteristics on wave monitoring) that can amplify the received mechanical energy, in addition to their ability to respond to a broad range of external stimuli (e.g., load or heat). The metasurfaces will combine more than one material structure and shape that can absorb energy within a wide range of dynamic operating conditions (frequency and amplitude of external excitation). The developed self-tuneable metasurfaces will be 3D printed and will perform as vibration (or sound) energy harvesters when miniaturised, and as vibration isolation material when at larger sizes.

How to Apply:

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering/Electronic, Electrical & Systems Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number FP-KB-2025 in your application.   

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit your CV and the minimum supporting documents.  

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. 

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent e.g. GPA of 7.5/10 or higher) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one of these areas will be an advantage.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

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