EngD in Composites Manufacture - Centre for Doctoral Training in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering

Funding for: Home/permanent UK residents subject to security clearance

Contract duration 4 years

Start date: September 2025

The project:

Correlating AFPT Manufacturing Inputs with Laminate Structural Integrity Using AI sponsored by Magma Global (Supervisor: Dr Bassam Elsaied)

The Automated Fibre Placement Technology (AFPT) manufacturing process for composites laminates is a key way of rapidly producing the large length cylindrical structures used in offshore applications. Variations in the AFPT parameters influence the structural performance of composite laminates and lead to defects and scrap. Hence the project will use existing AI tools to analyse correlations between manufacturing data (inputs and variabilities) and laminate performance (mechanical and structural properties). Inherent variabilities in the AFPT process (such as temperature, pressure, speed and tape quality) can impact the quality and performance of the final laminate. The EngD project will:

• Use AI to detect patterns in mechanical test data and computed tomography scan data and correlate these with manufacturing parameters, laminate quality, and laminate performance

• Devise a procedure to predict laminate performance based on manufacturing data and CT scan results
• Build a comprehensive understanding of the relationships between process inputs, laminate quality and structural performance to support improvements in manufacturing consistency and product quality
• Advance sustainability and innovation in composites engineering by minimising variability, reduce waste, and improve efficiency by understanding material behaviour, improving predictive accuracy, and reducing reliance on physical testing
• Develop your skills in the application of AI tools to analyse and predict laminate performance integrates digital technologies into the manufacturing process to achieve digital toolchain development and automation.
• Contribute to the vision of designing of durable, high-performing composites while minimising environmental impact by combining manufacturing data, structural performance, and digital tools.

How to apply:

To apply please submit a personal statement, outlining your experience and why you are interested in the PhD project, your CV and transcript of results to www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply. Please do not submit a project description; this is unnecessary as the project is already defined. Please select EngD in Composites Manufacture and enter Professor Janice Barton the Director of the CDT as the 2^nd supervisor (janice.barton@bristol.ac.uk)

Candidate requirements:  Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum a 2:1 MEng or merit at Masters level or equivalent in engineering, physics or chemistry. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree and performance at interview.

Funding: An enhanced stipend of £25,789 (based on UKRI 2024/25 rate), a fee waiver and generous research financial support for the successful candidates.

Contact: isce-cdt@bristol.ac.uk

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