PhD in Development and Tribological Testing of Omniphobic Surfaces in Cranfield United Kingdom | Cranfield University

Surface engineering has created opportunities for designing materials with diverse properties, enabling distinct surface and core behaviors that enhance material functionality.
An increasingly significant focus in surface engineering involves creating omniphobic surfaces capable of repelling various adhesive substances like water, dust, grime, and grease. These surfaces have practical uses in solar panel maintenance, water conservation in sanitation, oxidation prevention, anti-icing for high-altitude aircraft, high-temperature operations, and more.
PhD researchers will focus on developing and evaluating these surfaces through experimental and analytical methods to assess their durability in real-world scenarios. Part of this research may also explore incorporating self-healing properties to improve surface resilience and performance. This requires in-depth knowledge of surface topography, roughness, and atomic-level physical/chemical properties that influence macroscopic interactions.