Fire Code Design Development for Precast Cladding Façade System.

Summary

In a situation where the PCSPF is exposed to fire, the insulation layer should first ensure the thermal protection of the load-bearing layer, stay firm during the fire, and not contribute to fire spread. Further, the effectiveness of shear transfer during fire provided by the insulation and connectors should be assessed, especially for sandwich walls, since these are one of the core elements of PSPF system and contribute to their functionality as a construction element.   The thickness of the insulation between the concrete walls is one of the key aspects in the design of PCSPF systems as it influences the temperature development along their cross-section, therefore, different mechanical performances.

Additionally, since the concrete precast walls in any PCSPF system have different thickness, the side of the wall being exposed to fire could potentially impact the behaviour of connectors. In case of higher thickness of insulation, longer length of the connector will be outside concrete and may expose to fire which may result in achieving higher temperatures. As the mechanical properties deteriorate at higher temperatures, longer connectors can lead to more severe damage to the shear connection between the precast concrete walls of a PCSPF system as compared to the case with short connectors.

This hinders the potential use of sandwich walls as fire walls. Estimating their fire resistance is mostly limited by a lack of knowledge regarding the fire behaviour of connectors. The degradation of their stiffness and strength, as well as their anchorage capacity and the potential damage to concrete cladding by pulled-out connectors, constitute dangers to the fire resistance of the entire sandwich wall in construction of high and medium rise buildings.

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.