Coarse-grained molecular dynamics modelling in expansive soil

Overview

Expansive soil/active soil has wide applications in geotechnical engineering and other engineering disciplines due to its desirable special properties - for example, low permeability and swelling pressure under saturated condition. But these materials are highly susceptible to experiencing huge volume change and even damage due to moisture content reduction. However, the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon is still not clear for geotechnical engineers. Therefore, there is no optimum solution available to solve the problem.

In this project, a special modelling approach called coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) will be adopted to simulate this phenomenon and provide a deep insight into the ways of addressing the phenomenon.

Research activities

The potential candidate is expected to:

1. perform comprehensive literature review about the state-of-the-art in the research about CGMD in science and engineering applications
2. choose an applicable package of CGMD platform for the simulation in expansive soils.

Outcomes

Based on the project, it is anticipated that you will

1. present a comprehensive literature review report for the relevant research community
2. develop a scheme for CGMD simulation in expansive soils
3. ultimately, explain this phenomenon and provide recommendations for industry to improve the performance of expansive soil in engineering applications.

Skills and experience

• good communication skills in English environment.
• good team work and the will to do collaboration.
• relevant engineering and science background including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering and materials.

Keywords

• expansive soil

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.