Research assistant and PhD position at PoliMi on corrosion-fatigue

Raiway axle failures have been the starting point for the studies on fatigue. However, recent accidents and papers (see [1] by Hoddinott) have shown that corrosion-fatigue plays a significant role.

At PoliMi we have recently investigated this topic finding interesting results by corrosion-fatigue tests on small-scale specimens and, recently, a validation of the model by full-scale corrosion-fatigue tests (see papers [2-3]).

We are now participating to a EU project dedicated to new concepts for the inspection of railway axles (WOLAXIM project) and I am seeking for a candidate for a position of research assistant (February-December 2011) in this research field: the candidate will then be able to obtain a PhD position onto the same topic (PhD scholarship will start in Jan. 2012).

Candidates should have a background on fatigue, fracture mechanics and corrosion together with attitude for experimental activities and modelization.

Candidates can submit their Cv by e-mail (stefano.beretta@polimi.it). 

References

[1] D.S. Hoddinot, Railway axle failure investigations and fatigue crack growth monitoring of an axle, J Rail Rapid Transit 218 (2004), pp. 283–292.

[2] S. Beretta, M. Carboni,
A. Lo Conte and E. Palermo, An investigation of the effects of
corrosion on the fatigue strength of A1N steel railway axles, J Rail Rapid Transit 222 (2008), pp. 129–143.

[3] S. Beretta et al. Corrosion–fatigue of A1N railway axle steel exposed to rainwater . International Journal of Fatigue, Volume 32, Issue 6, June 2010, Pages 952-961