Dynamic deformation, damage and fracture of composites

In the recent years, the use of composite materials has demonstrated a continuing increase in aerospace, wind-energy, transportation, naval, defence and sports systems and products. Learn more at Dynamic deformation, damage and fracture of composites from the Loughborough University.

Key facts of the  Dynamic deformation, damage and fracture of composites Dynamic deformation, damage and fracture of composites programme offered by  Loughborough University Loughborough University

This development exacerbated a need for improvement in understanding of dynamic deformation, damage and fracture of composites since such components and structures are exposed in service not only to quasi-static loading conditions. 

A transition from quasi-static loading regimes to dynamic ones in heterogeneous materials is much more complex than in traditional structural materials like metals and alloys. 

The presence of phases with various mechanical properties and interfaces affects the character of stress-wave propagation resulting in complex spatio-temporal scenarios of damage and failure evolution, initiated in multiple spots. 

The current state of research in this area can be found in the following book: V.V. Silberschmidt (ed.), Dynamic Deformation, Damage and Fracture in Composite Materials and Structures. Elsevier, Amsterdam e.a., 2nd ed.; 2024, 650 pp.

Curriculum:

• The project will be based on a combination of experimental and numerical techniques (to accommodate expertise and skills of a candidate in the best possible way) focused on investigation of damage and fracture evolution in modern composites (including 3d printed ones) exposed to dynamic loading and will include international collaboration. 

• An emphasis will also be on development of finite-element modelling tools and their calibration/validation by experiments.