Institute of Materials Research
Topic
Design and synthesis of entropy-stabilized ultra-high temperature ceramics with superior strength and plasticity
PhD. program
Year of admission
2025
Name of the supervisor
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Prírodovedecká fakulta UPJŠ
Annotation
The dissertation work addresses the design and synthesis of novel ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), the only group of materials that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°C, with superior strength and plasticity. The research focuses on entropy-stabilised UHTCs as a large new group of materials, consisting of at least four different transition metals in the crystal lattice. The large compositional space makes it possible to design deformable ceramics instead of brittle UHTCs that exit to date (e.g. HfC, ZrB2). The topic includes the design of thermodynamically stable compositions, optimisation of processing route, structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) and mechanical testing of samples. The doctoral student will get familiarised with all techniques, however, basic knowledge of thermodynamics and the use of phase diagrams is required. Additionally, independent learning of new knowledge and good communication skills in English (both written and oral) is advantageous. Knowledge of CALPHAD software for calculations of phase diagrams, such as Thermo-Calc, is a great advantage during the selection process.