Fire Dynamics, Material Flammability and Computer Modelling of Fire Phenomena

Summary

Fire dynamics and material flammability are important research areas within fire safety engineering (FSE) in identifying and understanding the mechanisms related to the degradation, ignition and burning of materials and subsequent the fire spread and development with the ultimate goal to improve fire safety (people and structure) in buildings and other spaces. Fire dynamics and material flammability are closely related as studying the degradation and flammability of a material allows the evaluation of its fire performance, whereas understanding the fire dynamics of that material can contribute to fine tuning of the material properties to make it more fire safe/resistant. Research methodology will consisit of experimental testing, numerical analysis of heat transfer, and/or numerical modelling with advanced computer models for the investigation of ignition, burning, fire development and smoke movement with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and thermal responses and behaviour of structural elements under fire conditions using finite element analysis (FEA).

Research projects in any related research area are welcome and some potential topics (not limited to) are:

• Bio-based  and low toxicity fire retardants
• Passive  fire protection of facade structures: development of fireproof coatings and  insulation
• Non-leaching  fire retardants for timber materials
• Burning  behaviours of liquid and solid fuels in compartments
• Façade  fire spread: effects of modern façade materials
• Mechanical  and thermal behaviours of glazing in fires
• Computer  modelling of enclosure fire and externally venting flames
• Numerical  simulation of fire propagation in wildland fires
• Natural  and mechanical ventilation in complex buildings or tunnels

The successful candidate will work in a multi-disciplinary research team on areas related to material flammability, thermal degradation and burning behaviours of materials used in modern building, construction and aviation industries, fire dynamics and smoke movement in compartment and facade fires.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.