Project outline

An exciting opportunity exists for two PhD candidates to conduct research, which forms part of an international collaboration, into developing a robust repair technology for composite aircraft structures. The Cooperative Research Centre for Advanced Composite Structures (CRC-ACS) is leading this project (www.crc-acs.com.au). A number of partners are involved including the German Aerospace Centre, DLR (Deutsches Zentrum fur Luft- und Raumfahrt), Bishop GmbH and DSTO (Defence Science and Technology Organisation). 

One project will focus on the development of a numerical modelling capability which can reliably predict the damage response of repaired composite structures to static and dynamic loading. Model validation will be undertaken through a comprehensive experimental test program. This capability will be used to demonstrate the design of optimised repairs to meet damage-tolerant requirements. The other project will explore the use of carbon nanotubes or graphene platelets, dispersed within the bondline, to detect the initiation and propagation of damage. This has the potential of providing in-situ health monitoring on critical repairs on primary aircraft structures. 

This research will lead to the development of robust repair of composite aircraft structures to meet the requirement of the industrial partners involved in this program. The development of composite primary structure repair technology will enhance the application of composite materials in civil and military aircraft

Each project is a three-year CRC-ACS sponsored studentship with a stipend of AUD 27,222 per year per student. Students with an H1/E or a high H2A with an interest in composite aircraft structures, computational modelling and experimental testing are encouraged to apply by contacting Prof Brian G. Falzon (Brian.Falzon@,monash.edu).