Master thesis
The aim of the work is the further development and validation of a material model for TPE. For this purpose, mechanical tests are carried out, mechanical models are extended and model parameters are calibrated.
Topic of the work
While conventional elastomer materials are processed in energy-intensive processes due to vulcanization and do not offer any relevant recycling options, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) can be processed in a much more energy-efficient injection moulding process and can be recycled in a material cycle due to their mechanical recyclability. As a result, there are more and more cases in technical applications where classic elastomer components are being replaced by TPE.
However, the introduction of a new class of materials in technical products also brings with it new challenges. New modeling strategies need to be developed to facilitate the simulative design of TPE components. Such a modeling approach was developed at IKV, which can describe the material behavior of TPE taking into account various input variables. The aim of the work is to develop calibration routines for this approach and to validate them using mechanical tests.
© TPE Sealing GmbHThe work is written in this working group:
The working group deals with the development of models for elastomer materials. On the research side, current issues relating to the mechanical characterization, modelling and simulation of elastomer components are being addressed.
Objective:
The aim of the work is the further development and validation of a material model for TPE. To this end, mechanical tests are carried out, mechanical models are expanded and model parameters are calibrated.
Your task:
You will work on the following tasks for a Master’s thesis:
- Familiarization with the existing model and influence analysis of the model parameters
- Production of test specimens and mechanical characterization
- Development of a calibration routine and calibration of model parameters
- Validation of the model based on test results
Preferred fields of study:
Ideally you are studying:
- Mechanical engineering / industrial engineering, specializing in mechanical engineering
- General mechanical engineering
- Computational Engineering Science (CES)
- Simulation Sciences
- Materials science