Development of new cost-effective cast irons for metallurgy processing

White cast irons have been widely used in a variety of fields for size reduction. However, this type of grinding media represents a significant cost in processing plants. Based on the full understanding of the chemical reactions triggered by the impact and abrasion of the white cast iron grinding media and the subsequent modification of solid surface properties, it is possible to design and develop a new type of grinding media with a low cost. The PhD student will work with another PhD student, some postdoctoral research fellows and industry experts under the ARC Linkage Project, aiming to develop a new composition of white cast irons. The target is to replace the currently used grinding media.

UQ Chemical Engineering and Material Science are ranked in the top 50 and 85, respectively, in the world. UQ also has long-standing research strength in Metallurgy and Minerals Processing. The QS ranks UQ Minerals and Mining Engineering in the top 5 in the world. The new home for Chemical Engineering, the state-of-the-art Andrew N. Liveris Building provides cutting-edge teaching and research facilities and highly effective industry and public sector engagement. The broad base of research excellence in these areas at UQ is supported by state-of-the-art major research facilities at EAIT, CMM and ANFFQ. All facilities required by the project on chemical reactions, surface characterisation, materials development and practical application are available at UQ.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of metallic materials would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of materials/mechanical/chemical engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of materials characterisation is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Professor Mingxing Zhang (mingxing.zhang@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 20 May, 2024 20 May, 2024.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter METALLURGY-ZHANG.

Apply now