EPSRC FIBE3 CDT PhD studentship with Network Rail: Low-carbon cements for low-risk rail infrastructure applications

This is a four-year (1+3 MRes/PhD) studentship funded through the Cambridge EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment: Unlocking Net Zero (FIBE3 CDT). Further details can be found at https://www.net-zero-fibe-cdt.eng.cam.ac.uk/

The project is funded in collaboration with Network Rail, the entity responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Great Britain's railway infrastructure, with an extensive network spanning thousands of miles and its complex web of tracks, stations, signalling systems and more, and is fully committed to advancing research and innovation in the field of infrastructure and built environment to enhance efficiency, safety and sustainability.

The extensive use of cement and concrete by Network Rail across its UK rail infrastructure combined with the high emissions associated with their manufacture, are fuelling opportunities for lower carbon alternatives. Cement-based binders are widely deployed in lower strength and/or lower risk applications in conventional rail infrastructure including ancillary applications and low-risk exposure classes. These could include concrete for walkways and kerbs, blocks and pavers, drainage channels and cable troughs, signal and fence bases, some platform components and concrete fill; and mortars and grouts for slope and subgrade stabilisation, erosion control, repairs and surface treatments.

These assets have varying manufacturing, design and performance criteria. Current standards, e.g. BS EN 197 and FLEX 350 already include a range of binary and ternary low carbon cements and alternative binders, while other low compositions are not yet covered. Poor workability, limited durability data and lack of a clear acceptance route are barriers to uptake. Lower risk assets enable tailored binders, including those using recycled railway, and other secondary materials, to be assessed.

A subset will be investigated based on initial mapping of cementitious binders and applications, and design and performance requirements. The project will combine advanced material characterisation and mix design development, early age performance and modelling, sensor technology and accelerated and long-term mechanical and durability testing. The aim is to deliver the performance and whole-life carbon evidence needed for uptake on the rail network.

For project-specific enquiries please e-mail Professor Abir Al-Tabbaa at aa22@cam.ac.uk.

For general enquiries, please email cdtcivil-courseadmin@eng.cam.ac.uk.

Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a high 2.1 degree preferably at Masters level in Civil Engineering, or a relevant discipline, and with strong interest in cementitious materials and experimental work.

Fully-funded studentships (fees and maintenance) are only available for eligible home students in the first instance. A limited number of international students can be considered for funding at a later stage in the recruitment process. Further details about eligibility and funding can be found at:

https://www.net-zero-fibe-cdt.eng.cam.ac.uk/Admissions/MResPlusPhD

Applications should be made online via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal: Click the 'Apply' button above, stating project title and supervisor's name.

Please note there is a £20 application fee.

Early applications are strongly encouraged as an offer may be made before the stated deadline.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.