Master Thesis »thermoplastic Honeycomb Core

For the processing of a scientific topic and for the preparation of a master thesis on the topic »Thermoplastic Honeycomb Core Sandwich Rudder Side Shell - Characterization of Facesheet-core Debonding Behavior« we are looking for a motivated student (f/m/d).

The place of work is Halle (Saale).

**What you will do**

In the scope of a joint project a new sustainable thermoplastic sandwich component of a vertical stabilizer rudder is under development. In order to maintain the integrity of the entire structure under service conditions the new sandwich material must exhibit a high resistance to the initiation and propagation of separation between the facesheet layer and core (debonding). The damage behavior of such a sandwich material can be characterized using fracture mechanics methods. The Single Cantilever Beam Test (SCB) is one of the favored mechanical test methods which should be adapted to the new materials. Furthermore, the debonding mechanisms specific to the thermoplastic honeycomb core type should be investigated.

The task includes:

- Conduction of SCB tests (specimen preparation, test rig adaption, test conduction, data analysis)
- Analysis of full thermoplastic sandwich material specific debonding mechanisms (documentation of the debonding process, inspection of the fracture surfaces, analysis of the facesheet-core interface using NDI methods (X-ray CT, US etc)
- Selection of suitable design variants and material combinations and elaboration of further optimization potentials

The results of the study should be summarized in a master thesis report and the test campaign data must be documented adequately.

**What you bring to the table**
- Registered as student in an engineering discipline
- Experience and Knowledge in the following fields: Riber reinforced polymers, lightweight construction, mechanical testing
- Reliable and independent way of working
- Commitment and high motivation in fulfilling the task

**What you can expect**
- Direct supervision by experienced scientists and researchers
- Remuneration for your services in the form of parallel employment as a student assistant
- Creative and very well equipped working environment
- Collaboration in exciting research projects

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

If you have any questions about this position / this assignment, please contact:
Dr. Ralf Schäuble

Phone 0345 5589-151

Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS

Requisition Number: 67879