PhD positions
No offer for the momment
Semester projects
Contact me to discuss ideas if you are interested in doing a semester projects and learn more about the use of composite materials in structures. See also below in Master Theses proposals.
Master Theses
Master Thesis (MA) or semester project (BS) on imaging of damage
Event-Based Imaging for Crack Propagation Monitoring
The objective of this Master’s thesis (or semester project) is to investigate the potential of event-based cameras for monitoring crack propagation in Mode I specimens. Conventional cameras provide high spatial resolution and are already widely used in strain-based methods for crack propagation monitoring. However, they acquire images at fixed time intervals, and their acquisition frequency is limited by the large size of the generated images. This can prevent them from capturing rapidly evolving fracture events, such as unstable crack propagation.
Event-based cameras offer an alternative imaging approach with microsecond-scale temporal resolution and low latency. Instead of acquiring full images at fixed time intervals, they record asynchronous streams of pixel-level events, triggered only when a change in brightness is detected. These characteristics make them particularly promising for analyzing the transient dynamics associated with unstable crack propagation.
The thesis will investigate the use of event-based imaging as a crack-monitoring technique for experimental fracture mechanics. The recorded event sequences will be processed to reconstruct crack evolution over time, and the results will be compared with those obtained using conventional image-based techniques. Based on this comparison, the capability of event-based cameras to capture and characterize rapid fracture events will be assessed.
Master’s on recycling of 3D printing plastic waste
Recycling 3D Printing Plastic Waste from the GIS Platform
3D printing generates significant plastic waste from failed prints, support structures, and prototypes. This project aims to develop a low-cost recycling system that converts this waste into reusable 3D printing filament, reducing both material costs and environmental impact.
Objectives
Design, build, and validate:
- A plastic shredder to process 3D printing waste into flakes.
- A filament extruder to produce new filament from the recycled material.
Optional Extension
Characterize the recycled filament through mechanical and printability tests, and determine the optimal virgin/recycled material ratio to maintain performance.
Available Resources
Many mechanical, electrical, and heating components are already available within the GIS-GE platform. The project will focus on system design, integration, assembly, and testing.
Expected Outcomes
- Functional plastic shredder prototype.
- Functional filament extrusion system.
- Validation of the recycling process.
- (Optional) Material characterization and recycling guidelines.
This project combines mechanical design, manufacturing, materials engineering, and sustainability to promote a circular approach to 3D printing.
