Course paper / final thesis Development of virtual micro-models for prediction of macroscopic properties of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) and optimisation of manufacturing process Student of Computational, Material or Aerospace Engineering or similar

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For our Institute of Structures and Design in Stuttgart we wish to recruit a

Development of virtual micro-models for prediction of macroscopic properties of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) and optimisation of manufacturing process

Your mission:

In the department of ceramic composite structures at DLR (German Aerospace Center), Institute of Stuctures and Design, ceramic matrix composites (CMC) have been developed since the late 1980s. These materials exhibit damage tolerant fracture behavior, good thermal shock resistance and insensitivity towards cyclic fatigue. So called C/C-SiC materials are manufactured via liquid silicon infiltration (LSI), a robust process based on three characteristic steps: (1) Manufacture of a CFRP preform; (2) Pyrolysis, resulting in a porous C/C preform; (3) Siliconization by capillary infiltration of Si in the C/C preform and chemical reaction of Si with C, building up a SiC matrix. Each step comprises of certain parameters which have influence over the macroscopic properties of the material.

The aim of this work is to study the influence of these parameters over the macroscopic properties of C/C-SiC and include this information into the micro-models to be able to predict these properties. Ultimately, this process-property relationship will be used to tailor the composite to cater for specific high temperature applications.

The work will comprise:

• understanding of manufacturing process of C/C-SiC
• identification of major manufacturing parameters
• literature review for existing micro models for CMCs
• development of approaches to include the parameters into micro-models
• validation of models with help of experimental results
• documentation of the study and implentation approach

Your qualifications:

• Student of Computational, Material or Aerospace Engineering
• knowledge of mechanics of composite materials
• knowledge of FEM Simulation
• basic knowledge of programming languages (e.g. Python)

Your benefits:

Look forward to a fulfilling job with an employer who appreciates your commitment and supports your personal and professional development. Our unique infrastructure offers you a working environment in which you have unparalled scope to develop your creative ideas and accomplish your professional objectives. Our human resources policy puts great value on a healthy work-life balance as well as equal opportunities for men and women. Individuals with disabilities will be given preferential consideration in the event their qualifications are equivalent to those of other candidates.

If you have any questions concerning specific aspects of the job, please contact Neraj Jain by calling +49 711 6862-8264. Please find further information on this vacancy with the reference number 14676, and details regarding the application procedure, at www.DLR.de/dlr/jobs/#25698.