3-Directional Frictional Mechanical Metamaterials (3DFMMs) PhD 36 months PHD Programme By Loughborough University |TopUniversities
Subject Ranking

# 100QS Subject Rankings

Programme Duration

36 monthsProgramme duration

Application Deadline

31 Mar, 2025Application Deadline

Main Subject Area

Engineering - MechanicalMain Subject Area

Programme overview

Main Subject

Engineering - Mechanical

Degree

PhD

Study Level

PHD

Study Mode

On Campus

Metamaterials have extraordinary properties and functionalities not typically found in conventional solids. Among metamaterials, 3DFMMs represent a groundbreaking innovation for systems requiring efficient energy dissipation or damping under multiaxial cyclic loading conditions, while maintaining a lightweight and structurally efficient profile. The advantages of 3DFMMs are in their scalability (ranging from micrometre to centimetre scales), material compatibility (metals, polymers, and even ceramics), and operational resilience in extreme environments (e.g., high/low temperatures). Friction-based metamaterials experience high localised shear stress, leading to their rapid wear and reduced performance over time, particularly under cyclic loading conditions. In the case of 3DFMMs, energy dissipation primarily occurs through friction, but material deformations also contribute to multi-directional energy dissipation. 
This project aims to develop a program for the design of 3DFMMs with predictable and tunable energy-dissipation capabilities. The proposed framework will incorporate a sliding Coulomb friction, wear resistance analysis, and a deformation mechanism, informed by insights from the crystal plasticity framework.
This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of a new realm in engineered material creation. Join us in bridging the gap between simulation and experimental data and contribute to the advancement of programmable mechanical metamaterials.

Programme overview

Main Subject

Engineering - Mechanical

Degree

PhD

Study Level

PHD

Study Mode

On Campus

Metamaterials have extraordinary properties and functionalities not typically found in conventional solids. Among metamaterials, 3DFMMs represent a groundbreaking innovation for systems requiring efficient energy dissipation or damping under multiaxial cyclic loading conditions, while maintaining a lightweight and structurally efficient profile. The advantages of 3DFMMs are in their scalability (ranging from micrometre to centimetre scales), material compatibility (metals, polymers, and even ceramics), and operational resilience in extreme environments (e.g., high/low temperatures). Friction-based metamaterials experience high localised shear stress, leading to their rapid wear and reduced performance over time, particularly under cyclic loading conditions. In the case of 3DFMMs, energy dissipation primarily occurs through friction, but material deformations also contribute to multi-directional energy dissipation. 
This project aims to develop a program for the design of 3DFMMs with predictable and tunable energy-dissipation capabilities. The proposed framework will incorporate a sliding Coulomb friction, wear resistance analysis, and a deformation mechanism, informed by insights from the crystal plasticity framework.
This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of a new realm in engineered material creation. Join us in bridging the gap between simulation and experimental data and contribute to the advancement of programmable mechanical metamaterials.

Admission Requirements

92+
6.5+
3.2+


31 Mar 2025
3 Years
Oct

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

More programmes from the university

PHD Programmes 368