Fibre metal laminates (FML) consist of thin layers of metal sheet andunidirectional fibre layers embedded in an adhesive system. It has superiormaterial properties to resist impact loading and fatigue, on top of the verylow weight to strength ratio. In addition to the thin metal layer, the fibrelayer can also be modified and replaced by other non-conventional glassfibre, such as metallic foam materials and pre-designed metal lattices madefrom laser forming. In Liverpool, two new systems have been developed, atitanium alloy/carbon fibre reinforced PEEK system and an aluminium alloyglass fibre reinforced polypropylene system. Both offer good properties.Optimised FML systems have huge potential in aircraft and aerospaceindustry. The aim of this project is to develop finite element modelling tosimulate FML systems under impact loading and further to optimise the systemwith validated numerical models.

Applicants require a minimum of an upper second class honours degree orrelevant experience in engineering.

This research opportunity is open to Home/EU residents who are eligible toapply for an EPSRC DTA award (see eligibility criteria at www.epsrc.ac.uk )and also to International applicants who can apply for a UniversityStudentship.

These Studentships includes full payment of fees and a 3-year maintenancegrant (in the region of £12,300 tax-free per annum) and opportunities tosupplement this income by undertaking some teaching duties.

The closing date is 30th May 2006.

For further information please contact either zguan@liverpool.ac.uk orW.Cantwell@liverpool.ac.uk. To apply for this position please contact

pgeng@liverpool.ac.uk
Postgraduate Student Support Office
Department of Engineering
Derby Building
University of Liverpool
Brownlow Hill
Liverpool L69 3GH
UK

Telephone: +44 151 794 4857 or +44 151 794 4902
Facsimile: +44 151 794 4901
Further details - Please refer to the website:http://www.liv.ac.uk/engdept/