Welcome to the research webpage for my group. I am a lecturer in Civil Engineering at the University of Exeter. My research interests are broadly in the use of intelligent sensing for effective maintenance and management of civil infrastructure systems such as bridges. I also have a particular interest in applied computing in civil engineering design and construction.
I am looking for an undergraduate student to work on a summer research project on the use of auxetics in concrete structures. The project aims to evaluate the advantages, if any, of using auxetic fibres in place of steel/FRP rebars in concrete. This concept, so far unexplored, has the potential to lead to a novel use of composites for high performance civil construction. It will involve both numerical and experimental work. The numerical work will be related to designing an appropriate auxetic yarn and to analyzing concrete beams with auxetic reinforcements. Experimental work will consist of manufacture of beams, developing prestressing mechanisms and laboratory testing (flexural/tensile). The project is funded by EPSRC under the bridging the gaps initiative. A stipend will be available over the course of the project.
Candidate requirements: Candidates will have a background in reinforced concrete beams or composites. Should be motivated and eager to work on a novel, interesting idea. Interested students are requested to drop me an email or come by my office for a chat.