We are looking for two highly qualified and motivated PhD candidates to be part of the team for the Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC funded project “ 3D-Printed Thermoplastic Composites for Floating Marine Infrastructure”. The successful candidates will receive a non-taxable living stipend of $40,000 per year and a full tuition fee waiver for three years.
PhD 1: 3D-Printable thermoplastic composites development, characterisation and life-cycle assessment
Project description: This PhD project will develop new 3D printable fibre-reinforced waste thermoplastic composites and evaluate their physical, mechanical properties, buoyancy, and degradation characteristics including fire resistance. This includes assessing their suitability for 3D printing using Hyperion’s large format 3D printers and ensuring their short-term and long-term performance in marine environments. Thermoplastic composites will be carefully selected based on their mechanical and environmental properties. They will undergo physical and mechanical testing (e.g., tensile, compressive, flexural strength, impact, and fatigue) to assess their suitability for the pontoon base. Additionally, environmental durability and fire-resistant testing will ensure thermoplastic composites can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture, UV radiation, elevated in-service temperatures, and accidental fires, which are crucial factors in marine structures. The project will also implement a systematic method for evaluating the environmental impact of the novel 3D-printed flotation modules from thermoplastic composites throughout their entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal or recycling.
PhD 2: Physical wave modelling and design optimisation of 3D printed thermoplastic composite flotation modules
Project description: This PhD project focuses on the physical wave modelling and design optimisation of 3D printed thermoplastic composite flotation modules for marine infrastructure. The research will emphasise advanced numerical modelling and simulation (e.g., FEM/CFD) to evaluate performance under simulated and realistic wave conditions, supported by targeted experimental validation. It will involve optimising structural design, material selection, and geometry to enhance durability, buoyancy, and overall performance. A strong foundation in experimental testing, computational modelling, programming (MATLAB, Python, or similar), and a solid understanding of composite material behaviour are essential, with additional interest in design optimisation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable materials highly valued.