PhD Studentship Multi-directional long duration blast response of column sections



Ref: CMEES-INF-106

Research group:  Infrastructure, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment

Deadline: Applications will be accepted at any time until the position is filled.

Blast loads are complex to characterise, conceptualise and model. They depend upon the chemical source of initiation, the quantity of the materials involved, interaction with the surrounding environment and the coupled response of any obstructions or structures. Very few computational methods that are readily available accurately model the interplay of all these factors with a reasonable degree of accuracy, in a reasonable solution time. The problem is exasperated when numerical extremes are considered. In the case of this research project, one such instance is that of long duration blast pressures interacting multiple times with undamaged and damaged primary load carrying compression elements. Despite only occurring for fractions of a second, the total impulsive energy transferred to a structure can be colossal, overwhelming and hugely destructive. The damage accumulation and remaining structural integrity becoming a function of modified harmonic properties, material changes, residual local and global resistance of the system.

This research project will use the latest techniques and advances in computational modelling, blending the capabilities of the Applied Element Method and Finite Element Analysis. Research will examine individual primary structural components which form the key building blocks of any major structure class. Damage accumulation and therefore, resilience of a structure through time will be quantified given the occurrence of multiple blast loads. The appointed research student can draw upon the experience of an active research group in this area and the additional, valuable support of an industrial sponsor for experimental trials work. This doctoral project would suit a talented and motivated graduate in Civil & Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or Applied Mathematics. A passion to learn complex computational structural dynamics and computational fluid dynamics techniques to solve engineering problems is very important; combined with enthusiasm to conduct well thought out supporting experiments focused upon a clearly defined goal.

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If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Simon Clubley, Infrastructure research group, Email: S.K.Clubley@soton.ac.uk  

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