Research
Our research is future focussed and embraces a wide range of research topics to address the global challenges of climate crisis, scarcity of resources and pollution, in line with the University’s strategy. We conduct frontline research addressing the following areas:
Composites have outstanding, tailorable properties, which make them ideal materials for advanced engineering applications where light weight and high performance are essential properties.
We research new numerical tools for the design of composite structures, develop novel structural and material configurations, undertake high fidelity experimentation to understand behaviour. In many cases we work closely with industrial partners, to deliver real-world value and practical solutions
Advanced composites are complex materials; most are based on hydrocarbons (mainly oil), and close to 90% of composite products are currently not being reused or recycled at the end of their life. Disentangling the constituents in a recycling process as well as reducing (eliminating) environmental impact are difficult.
Our focus is to improve current recycling techniques to minimise degradation of a composite material’s performance and offer a better chance of follow-on use.
The digitisation of activities in engineering spans a very broad remit, from electronic data collection from factory processes to advanced computer-based analysis.
We aim to use our expertise to optimise processes and practises, so that outcomes can be achieved with reduced time, cost, energy and waste.
Composites play a vital role in emerging advanced material solutions for keeping people and equipment safe in the harsh physical environments such as polar or tropical heat, shock, blasts and extreme water depth. Exciting new material discovery is emerging in the shape of meta materials which represent a class of multi-functional materials that are artificially engineered materials with properties not found in nature, arising from their structural design rather than their constituent materials.
BCI uses leading edge technology to research the development of composite material systems, polymer as well as ceramic matrix based, for extreme environments, multi-functional and meta material systems, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and composite aero/hydrogel systems.
When composite parts are manufactured, the final form of the material is created at the same time, e.g. the combination of fibre and resin through infusion or the curing of pre-preg systems. This makes the manufacturing process for composites complex, time consuming while limiting the opportunities for repair and part replacement.
BCI research in this priority area covers the creation of new manufacturing techniques and existing manufacturing processes to address challenges faced by industry and support the development of new products. Process modelling is a particular example of how research can support both new and existing capabilities, through generation of understanding, optimisation and problem solving.
Composite are creating emerging opportunities across diverse sectors and we recognise the need for adaptability and to actively scan the horizon beyond current (perceived) industry and society drivers.