Surface and Suspension Dynamics in the Alignment of Recycled Fibres

The composites industry is under increasing pressure to transition towards a truly circular economy. As growing demand continues to widen the supply gap, we must recover untapped value that would otherwise be lost to landfilling and incineration, which are resource-intensive and environmentally damaging end-of-life pathways. Where recycled fibres are used, they are often downcycled as fillers and low-value reinforcements in their short and randomly aligned form. A key challenge to the effective reintegration of recycled carbon and glass fibres into high-performance products lies in achieving scalable and energy-efficient fibre alignment from irregular, reclaimed feedstocks. Fibre surface attributes and suspension behaviour in alignment systems play vital roles in determining the alignment efficiency, process stability, and the downstream consolidation and performance of remanufactured composites. 

This fully-funded PhD project fits within a wider research programme with industrial partners and an interdisciplinary team working on the development of cross-platform alignment technologies that integrate material science, process engineering and sustainability analysis to deliver scalable solutions for circular composites manufacturing. The successful candidate will contribute to this broader vision by investigating the surface characteristics and suspension dynamics of recycled short fibres used in alignment processes. 

Collaborative links with Gen 2 Carbon, Sigmatex and Teijin Europe in the parent project provide exciting opportunities for knowledge-exchange activities and technical site visits throughout the project. 

Project Objectives

1. Characterise the surface properties of reclaimed carbon and glass fibres from different sources and with varying processing histories.
2. Investigate suspension behaviour, including fibre dispersion, settling and agglomeration tendencies under varying conditions.
3. Study the influence of suspension properties on alignment efficiency, consolidation behaviour, and interfacial compatibility with traditional composite matrices. 
4. Explore complementary computational fluid dynamics-discrete element method (CFD-DEM) simulations as a tool to predict fibre-fluid interactions and inform experimental design.

Early application is advised as the position will be filled once a suitable candidate is identified.

Training

As a PhD student, you will take part in a wide range of research activities, including collaboration with international researchers and participation in conferences, workshops and seminars. You will work closely with fellow researchers within the Institute for Materials and Processes (IMP) at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering. Regular meetings and collaborative interactions across the group will provide valuable opportunities for technical exchange and peer learning. 

You will have access to tailored professional development opportunities through the Institute for Academic Development, and technical training will be provided as needed to support your experimental and analytical work. Close alignment with the parent project and its industry partners will facilitate site visits and knowledge exchange activities, enhancing the real-world relevance of your research. 

Note that only applications received via the University’s online system will be considered. All applications should include the following documents: 

• 2–3-page research proposal
• 1-page motivation letter/personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Degree transcripts/certificates

•   For any enquiries, please contact: Dr Winifred Obande (w.obande@ed.ac.uk)

•   The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Details: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity

•   Supervisor home page https://eng.ed.ac.uk/about/people/dr-wini-obande

Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.

We welcome applications from motivated, curious, and technically capable individuals with a first-class or upper 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in one of the following disciplines:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical, Chemical or Manufacturing Engineering
• Applied Physics or Physical Chemistry (especially surface, fluid, or particle systems)
• Other closely related disciplines with a strong experimental and analytical focus

Other Essential Requirements:

• 3D CAD proficiency, ideally using Solid Edge, Creo, or SolidWorks.
• Demonstrable experimental laboratory competence and analytical skills.
• University of Edinburgh English-language entry requirements apply.

Desirable Requirements:

• Experience in wet labs, polymer processing and experimental characterisation.
• Familiarity with surface analysis techniques.
• Some knowledge of CFD, DEM, or multiphase flow modelling.
• Some coding experience, ideally in Python or MATLAB.

Further information and other funding options.

Tuition fees and stipend are available for Home and International students. 

Applications are also welcome from self funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.