Ammasai Sengodan Ganapathi
6 months ago
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Sloshing-induced permeation of hydrogen in composite LH2 storage tanks under aircraft manoeuvring loads - PhD Cranfield University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
Deadline
Expired
Country
United Kingdom
University
Cranfield University
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Keywords
About this position
Are you fascinated by the future of zero-emission aviation? This PhD project at Cranfield University investigates the movement of liquid hydrogen (LH₂) inside lightweight composite tanks during aircraft manoeuvres, focusing on whether sloshing can cause hydrogen permeation and leakage. The research combines hands-on experiments with advanced numerical modelling (CFD, FEA, FSI) to understand sloshing effects on tank performance and safety, aiming to generate key cryogenic hydrogen data and develop design insights for safe, certifiable hydrogen-powered aircraft.
As a student, you will collaborate closely with TWI Ltd on permeation analysis of composite tank walls, and engage with aircraft manufacturers, fuel tank designers, and regulators. The project is supported by Cranfield’s Centre for Aeronautics, Propulsion and Power, a leading hub for aerospace education and research, and the Hydrogen Integration Research Centre (HIRC), which offers cutting-edge facilities for hydrogen production, storage, and materials testing. You will gain hands-on experience with flight simulators, labs, and industry collaborations, and benefit from interdisciplinary training in aircraft loading actions, cryogenics, risk assessment (HAZOP), aviation safety regulations, and responsible research practices.
Additional opportunities include on-board flight training from Cranfield’s National Flying Laboratory Centre (NFLC) to collect and process real-time flight data, engagement with industrial partners and workshops on hydrogen certification and sustainable aviation, and support for national or international conference travel. The project is sponsored by EPSRC, TWI Ltd, and Cranfield University, offering a bursary of up to £23,000 (tax free) plus fees for three and a half years, with an enhanced stipend to attract outstanding candidates. The studentship is open to both Home and Overseas fee status students, though only a limited number of studentships are available for Overseas students.
Applicants should have a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering fields. Experience in coding, numerical analysis (CFD/FEA/FSI), and composite structures is advantageous, and a passion for laboratory-scale experiments is highly desirable. Applications are reviewed as received, so early submission is encouraged. For further information, contact Dr Ammasai Sengodan Ganapathi at [email protected].
Funding details
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
What's required
Applicants should possess a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering field. Experience in coding, numerical analysis (CFD/FEA/FSI), and background in composite structures is advantageous. A strong passion for designing and conducting high-quality laboratory-scale experiments is highly desirable.
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Professors
Professor at Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Aerodynamics
Fluid Mechanics
Viscous Flow
Cfd
Transonic Flow
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.