The award of a research grant from the International Fine Particle Research Institute (IFPRI) has created a unique opportunity for a PhD programme to develop fundamental understanding of powder flowability at low consolidation stresses and at high strain rates, at the Institute of Particle Science and Engineering, University of Leeds.

The project involves experimental work on flowability assessment for a range of powders using a novel approach of ball indentation into a powder bed, along with numerical simulation by the Distinct Element Method (DEM) to understand the stress distributions within the bed. The aim is to develop a theoretical understanding of the flowability of powders at low stresses. The project will also go beyond a description of the initiation of flow and investigate powder flow under dynamic conditions.

The powders will be characterised using state of the art facilities at the University of Leeds, including nano-indentation to determine mechanical properties and X-ray micro tomography for describing particle shape.

The award covers UK/EU tuition fees at the rate of £3,975 only and an annual stipend of £16,000.  The scholarship is open to both UK/EU and International students. Please note International fee rated students will be required to contribute an additional £12,500 (approximately) each year towards their tuition fees.

Academic requirements: Applications are invited from candidates with or expecting a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree (or equivalent) in engineering (Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering), physical sciences (Chemistry or Physics) or applied mathematics. Due to the nature of the project, a good level of competence in numerical methods and experimental skills are essential. In addition, communication and team-working skills are highly desirable due to the strong link with the industrial members of IFPRI.

Application Procedure: Interested applicants should send their CV and degree transcripts to Dr Colin Hare (c.hare<στο>leeds.ac.uk).

Formal applications for research degree study should be made on-line through the linkwww.leeds.ac.uk/rsa/prospective_students/apply/I_want_to_apply.html . Please state clearly on the funding section of the application form that you wish to be considered for the 'Flowability Assessment of Weakly Consolidated Powders'. In the research information section please and name Dr Colin Hare.