PhD (4 years) on Advanced Material Modelling using Finite Element Analysis for Technical Textiles and Textile Manufacturing

We are seeking a dedicated PhD candidate on advanced material modelling in the textile domain. In this project you will dive deep into a cutting-edge research area, exploring the complexities of advanced textile material modelling. You will collaborate closely with an research team comprising 2 other PhD students and a postdoctoral researcher.

The research project focusses on the development of a robust multi-scale textile modelling framework, utilizing finite element analysis combined with virtual fibre modelling. Simulations encompass both the manufacturing side (e.g. weaving, stitching, bobbin unwinding, etc.) as well as the performance side (e.g. strength prediction of specialized technical fabric connections). Such simulations are very challenging due to the use of diverse materials (natural and synthetic fibers, yarns and fabrics) combined with high anisotropy and non-linearity. Furthermore, the dynamics of high-speed manufacturing processes need to be included in the modelling framework, ensuring its applicability to real-world processes. This is still a very new research topic and many scientific questions remain unanswered.

Requirements

• Experience with finite element mechanical modelling, knowledge of Abaqus™ or other commercial FEA packages;
• Familiar with mechanics of materials and experimental and computational techniques;
• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, computational mechanics, materials science, or similar;
• Good knowledge of English writing and speaking;

More information can be found on https://composites.ugent.be/PhD_job_vacancies_PhD_job_positions_composit....