Titanium alloys are highly desirable materials for making components and products to be used in numerous aerospace, chemical processing and other applications due to their high strength to weight ratio, good ductility, high corrosion resistance and other favourable properties. However, traditional titanium alloy component production methods often cause extensive material waste with “fly-to-buy” ratios as low as 15~20% in some aerospace applications. Powder metallurgy based component production delivers greater material utilisation and lower cost, opening a much larger market for titanium based products.

This PhD research work is part of a larger research programme supported by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology under the High Value Manufacturing Processes, Products and Materials portfolio. The objectives of this programme are to develop new titanium alloy powder metallurgy and powder coating technologies and targeted knowledge base for producing components and coatings from NZ made titanium alloy powders.

The general objectives of this part of the project are to investigate the fundamental relationships and mechanisms underlying pressureless and pressure assisted sintering of powder metallurgy titanium alloys such as Ti-6wt%Al-4wt%V. Research will include investigation in the effects of material and processing on the sintering process, microstructure of the sintered body and shape changes, and will include the effects of

particle size 

particle size distribution

sintering temperature

sintering atmosphere

The Fellowship is for 3 years and will begin as soon as a suitable candidate is found. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or Physical Metallurgy with sufficient honours standing or a masters degree in these areas. Knowledge of powder metallurgy and/or powder sintering techniques is an advantage. The successful candidate will receive an annual stipend for the 3 year duration of the fellowship of NZ $25000 which includes a living allowance of NZ$20,000 and NZ$5,000 towards university fees,

To apply:

Applicants should send a copy of their Curriculum Vitae and the names and contact details of three referees to

         Dr Mark Jones

         Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering

         Engineering Building, 20 Symonds St

         Auckland, New Zealand

         mark.jones@auckland.ac.nz