About the project
This project aims to develop advanced flexible materials used as dielectric elastomer transducers (DET) in energy harvesting applications. As part of the Doctoral Centre for Advanced Electrical Power Engineering, your research will seek to maximise DET efficiency in converting energy naturally available in the surrounding environment into sustainably sourced, electricity.
The increasing reliance on electronic devices and sensing systems over recent decades has led to higher electricity demands, prompting exploration beyond conventional energy sources. Apart from the emerging demand for large-scale renewable energy harvesting, especially notable is the growing need for reliable small-scale power sources suitable for wearable technology, implantable biomedical devices, and distributed monitoring systems. To address these requirements, development of innovative harvesting systems in conditions where conventional electromechanical generators do not excel is crucial.
Dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) represent a promising alternative for scavenging energy from irregular, fluctuating forces and motions that are typically considered unused or waste. DETs provide distinct advantages, including lightweight construction, quiet operation, low cost, exceptional flexibility, as well as relatively high energy densities, making them suitable for diverse applications such as harvesting energy from human movement, structural vibrations, and various renewable energy forms.
This project will specifically focus on maximising the energy conversion performance of DET materials by tailoring their dielectric and mechanical properties. The research will involve systematic development and characterization of novel elastomeric materials incorporating assorted nanoscale fillers or other additives.
Your role will include:
- conducting literature review
- planning experimental sessions
- manufacturing lab-scale DET specimens
- evaluating their performance under practical conditions
Additionally, you will disseminate your findings by contributing to high-impact scientific journals, presenting results at international conferences, and engaging with relevant academic communities. This project offers a unique opportunity to drive progress in flexible energy-harvesting technologies and to address contemporary challenges associated with expanding technologies and innovative applications.
You'll join an interdisciplinary and diverse academic team in the Electrical Power Engineering research group that will support you in expanding your transferrable skills, such as critical review of the literature, academic writing and publishing, as well as collaborating with your team members and organising activities. You'll acquire hands-on experience with testing facilities and operate advanced equipment in the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory as part of your experimental research.
The School of Electronics and Computer Science is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break.
The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
