PhD in Engineering Polymers and Composites

Environmental effects on the long-term mechanical performance of short-fibre-reinforced thermoplastics (ENFORM)

Short-fibre reinforced thermoplastics (SFRPs) are widely used in industries such as automotive and electrical engineering. During service, these materials are frequently exposed to harsh environments involving elevated temperatures, oxygen, and moisture. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can lead to a significant deterioration of their mechanical performance.

Material degradation arises from slow and irreversible changes in the polymer matrix, including molecular weight reduction, cross-linking, and morphological alterations. Additionally, degradation of the fibre–matrix interface can occur, further compromising the mechanical integrity of these composites. Together, these mechanisms strongly influence the long-term behaviour and durability of these engineering plastics.

This PhD project aims to investigate the mechanisms governing the long-term evolution of material properties in short-fibre reinforced thermoplastics with different polymer matrices, such as polyamides, polyphenylene sulphide, and isotactic polypropylene. The study will focus on ageing induced by temperature, moisture, and oxygen, with particular emphasis on hydrolytic and thermo-oxidative ageing processes. Both short-term mechanical properties (e.g. tensile strength and impact resistance) and long-term properties (including creep and fatigue behaviour) will be analysed.

Furthermore, the project will develop physics-assisted artificial intelligence (AI) models that integrate experimental data with fundamental physical principles. These models will be used to predict the evolution of mechanical properties during ageing, with the goal of reducing experimental testing requirements while improving the accuracy and reliability of lifetime predictions for demanding applications.

The project is sponsored by the Dutch Polymer Institute (DPI), a leading international research platform that brings industry and academia together to drive pre-competitive, fundamental research in polymers.

We welcome applicants with interests in polymer physics, materials processing and characterisation, machine learning and performance optimisation of polymer composites. A background in materials science and engineering, polymer chemistry, or a related field is preferred. Prior experience with polymers or composites would be beneficial, though not essential. Most importantly, we are looking for motivated individuals who are enthusiastic about their research and able to work effectively within an interdisciplinary team.

The studentship includes a full stipend and covers UK tuition fees. The start date will be on or before September 2026, making this opportunity ideal for those completing, or who have recently completed, a UK-based undergraduate degree.

The research will be carried out by using the world-leading research facilities at the Centre for Polymers and Composites of WMG, University of Warwick. The PhD studentship offers a unique opportunity to work on this exciting topic with a group of leading international industrial scientists.

Essential and Desirable Criteria

A good 2:1 undergraduate (BEng, BSc, MEng) and/or postgraduate masters’ qualification (MSc) in a science and technology field such as Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Manufacturing, Physics, Chemistry.

Supervisors: Prof. Ton Peijs, Dr. Leonid Pasthukov

Funding information: Supporting Organisation: Dutch Polymer Institute (DPI)

Funding Comment

The studentship will cover tuition fees and provide a tax-free stipend at the prevailing UKRI rate for four years of full-time study.