Ceramic–Aerogel Composites for Extreme Environments

This DPhil project will tackle one of the most demanding challenges in advanced materials engineering, the protection of structural components that operate under extreme thermal conditions. Applications include fusion energy shielding, high-performance motorsport components, and thermal batteries, all of which are exposed to radiative heat fluxes exceeding megawatts per square meter.

Conventional thermal protection systems typically rely on multi-layer architectures, but these suffer from significant issues such as thermal expansion mismatch, metal overheating, and structural weakness within insulating layers. This project aims to overcome these limitations by developing ceramic–aerogel composites materials that are lightweight, strain-tolerant, and thermally insulating while maintaining structural integrity at temperatures above 1400 °C.

The research will pioneer innovative synthesis approaches to engineer these advanced composites. Strategies can, for instance, include aerogel networks on ultra-high-temperature ceramic substrates, embedding aerogels or smart materials into ceramic matrices to form hybrid composites, or designing meta-structured ceramics with precisely tailored thermal expansion and insulation properties.

To design materials capable of withstanding such environments, the research will employ a suite of advanced characterisation techniques, including scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman and infrared spectroscopy, and laser flash analysis to determine thermal diffusivity and conductivity. Complementary mechanical and thermo-mechanical testing at elevated temperatures will assess strength retention and strain tolerance, providing insights into performance under extreme thermal cycling.

This materials chemistry-driven project, carries strong industrial relevance and offers the opportunity to explore the frontiers of materials science. The successful candidate will gain expertise in advanced ceramic chemistry, microstructural design, and high-temperature characterization, contributing directly to technologies that define the future of aerospace and energy applications.

This project is funded through a 3.5-year industrial studentship. It will provide course fees at the 'Home Student' rate and a stipend of at least £20,780 per annum. Student with Overseas fees are eligible to apply. If admitted, an overseas student will have to cover the difference in fees between Home and Overseas.

Information on course fees and fee status can be found at https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding/fees-and-other...