PhD on Modeling the role of microstructure in short fatigue crack growth

The initial growth stage of a fatigue crack is affected by the microstructure and therefore is complicated to predict. You will use advanced computational models, combining crystal plasticity finite element models with cohesive zone models, to understand the microstructure role. You will conduct experiments for material parameter identification.

The central question for this PhD study is: Can we understand and model the role of the microstructure in microstructurally short fatigue crack growth in metals? Specifically, how do the characteristics of the microstructure (texture, morphology) influence the short crack growth? Can we model the transition between a microstructurally short crack and a physically small crack? Under which circumstances do fatigue cracks grow transgranular and/or intergranular (i.e., through grains or in between grains)? How does the microstructure influence the occurrence of crack arrest due to microstructural thresholds?

To answer these questions, you will enhance a crystal plasticity model previously developed in our group, with a cohesive zone model equipped with a fatigue damage formulation. The combined model should capture high-cycle fatigue crack growth in 3D microstructures. Fatigue tests for parameter identification will be conducted at our Structural Engineering and Design laboratory.

The knowledge that you develop is crucial for a safe prolonged use of cyclically loaded steel structures such as bridges or crane runways. As such, it helps in creating a sustainable future.

You will benefit from, and contribute to, the acknowledged forefront positions in fatigue life prediction our Steel Structures chair and in computational mechanics of our Applied Mechanics chair. You will use the experimental facilities of our structures lab.

Requirements:

• A master's degree (or an equivalent university degree) in mechanical engineering.
• Experience with fatigue, metallic microstructures and finite element modelling.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Salary Benefits:

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,872 max. €3,670).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
  A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

38 hours per week

De Rondom 70