This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the University of Bath URSA competition , for entry in September 2025.

Early application is encouraged, as excellent candidates may receive an early offer of a funded place before the end of the year. To be eligible for early consideration, you must apply before 24 November 2024.

Fusion energy offers a sustainable and nearly limitless source of clean energy. Realising the full potential of fusion energy requires ongoing globalcollaboration among nations, organisations, academia, and industry. Designing reactors that can safely and efficiently manage nuclear fusion presentssignificant challenges. One key challenge is developing structural materials capable of withstand the extreme heat and radiation inside these reactors,especially for the plasma-facing components. With the UK targeting a prototype fusion power plant by 2040, there is a pressing need for material innovation.This project will focus on a novel composite concept, SiC fibre reinforced tungsten composites (SiCf/W), which offers a potential material solution for plasmafacing components.

This project aims to investigate the microstructural evolution of SiCf/W composites, focusing on the impact of manufacturing processes on key propertiessuch as mechanical integrity and irradiation effects. Using state-of-the-art X-ray tomography and in-situ micro-mechanical testing and characterisation, wewill map the 3D microstructure, analysing porosity, crack formation, and phase distribution and transformation under simulated irradiation conditions.Numerical modelling will further predict the material’s performance within realistic operation environments, considering variables such as thermalgradient/shock, corrosion, and radiation exposure. The outcomes will inform the development of advanced SiCf/W composites with enhanced resilience,contributing to safer, long-term fusion reactor designs.

Candidate requirements:

Applicants must have, or be about to obtain, a UK Honours degree 1 ^st or 2.1, or international equivalent.

Non-UK applicants, who are not currently studying in the UK, must meet the programme’s English language requirement before the application deadline – no exceptions will be considered.

Enquiries:

Informal enquiries are encouraged! Direct these to Dr Yang Chen - [email protected]

Application Instructions

Please follow the below instructions carefully.

You must make a formal application via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Please note that you can apply for a maximum of two PhD projects on this programme.

In the ‘Funding Your Studies’ section, you must select ‘University of Bath URSA’ from one of the drop-down menus.

In the ‘Your PhD project’ section, you must quote the project title in the PhD project title field, and you must quote the lead supervisor’s name in the field ‘Name of intended supervisor at University of Bath.’

If you are applying for two projects, you must quote the project title for your second choice project in the field ‘Project 2 Title’ and the lead supervisor’s name in ‘Name of intended supervisor for 2 ^nd choice project at University of Bath.

You must ensure that you follow the above steps correctly. Failure to complete these steps will cause errors in the automated processing of your application and may mean that you are not considered for a particular project.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value a diverse research environment and strive to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

The Disability Service ensures that individuals with disabilities are provided the support that they need. If you state if your application that you have a disability, the Disability Service will contact you as part of this process to discuss your needs.

Keywords

Nuclear fusion, Composite materials, Modelling, Characterisation and Testing