Higher Degree by Research Application Portal
| Title | Standardizing in-Field Manufacture of Composite Repairs to Steel Structures |
|---|---|
| Supervisor | A/Pro Farhad Aslani |
| Course | Doctor of Philosophy |
| Research area | Engineering |
| Project description | The use of composite materials for repairing and reinforcing steel structures has gained significant attention due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and ease of application. However, the lack of a recognized standard at the national or international level presents a major challenge to their widespread adoption. This project aims to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive literature review and compiling available codes of practice and design guidelines related to composite repairs of steel structures. |
| Opportunity status | Closed |
| Open date | 12 May 2025 |
| Close date | 30 Jun 2025 |
| Funding source | ACM CRC |
| School | Graduate Research School |
| Contact | farhad.aslani@uwa.edu.au |
| Course type | Doctorates |
| Description | The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. Visit the course webpage for full details of this course including admission requirements, course rules and the relevant CRICOS code/s. |
| Duration | 4 years |
Guidance
• Durability of Composite Repairs in Steel Structures:
• Fire Performance of Composite Repairs:
• Design Approaches for Composite Repairs:
• Risk Assessment and Industry Confidence:
• Experimental Testing and Numerical Modelling:
• Durability Assessment and Long-Term Performance Modelling:
Follow the instructions in the link:
30 Jun 2025
Applicants should hold a degree in structural engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, aerospace engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidates will have:
A solid understanding of structural mechanics and materials behaviour Exposure to composite materials and/or adhesive bonding Interest in durability assessment and long-term performance modelling Familiarity with structural fire engineering or material response to elevated temperatures Experience with finite element analysis (e.g. Abaqus, ANSYS, or similar) Strong analytical skills in data handling, simulation, or reliability-based design Willingness to engage in experimental lab work, including fire testing and specimen preparation A proactive approach to interdisciplinary research and collaboration with industry
Scholarships
Available scholarships in this opportunity.
Development of engineering guidance for bonded composite repairs to steel structures