Master's thesis: Fracture resistance of embossed low density fibre networks

Low density fibre networks (typically used in tissues) are an interesting class of materials from the perspective of their mechanics and underlying material properties. With the ever-expanding market for tissue products, addressing questions of product performance and design is of importance. This needs a thorough understanding of the various parameters that influence the structural/performance properties like modulus, strength, bulk, absorption etc. The understanding today is largely based on empirical knowledge and thus there is a need to develop predictive tools to eventually aid in answering questions related to design and performance.

Embossing patterns serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. The embossing process serves to increase the bulk of the product aiding absorption and improved tactile properties, but this comes at a cost of reduced mechanical performance. Thus, it is of importance to understand the effect these patterns have on mechanical performance. This would eventually lead to a more informed design process while also allowing for optimising the embossing patterns.

Regarding the thesis
We are looking for two students who are looking to complete the Master thesis in the spring of 2025.

RISE has been long involved in research related to tissue products. The current master thesis will be a part of a publicly financed project on predicting strength of embossed low density fibre networks. The results are expected to form a part of peer reviewed scientific publications.

The aim of this thesis will be to utilise theories within fracture mechanics to investigate the reduction in strength properties post embossing on low density fibre networks. The focus will be on coupling the structural parameters of a low density fibre network to the length scale parameters of the fracture mechanics’ model.

The thesis work is expected to comprise of experimental and analytical work primarily. If and when necessary, finite element simulations could be utilised. The experimental part of the work will be carried out at the RISE facility on the KTH campus in Stockholm. The student is free to choose where to work from otherwise.

What will you learn?
In the course of this work, you will learn to apply concepts in fracture mechanics and material mechanics to provide insights into a design problem. You will also be introduced to the fascinating world of paper mechanics and its role in helping to optimise everyday consumer products.

Who are you?
You as an applicant, should be driven and like to take initiative. You should be someone with an ongoing education at master's level in solid mechanics with good knowledge of Material Mechanics, Fracture Mechanics, and Data Analysis in MATLAB.

Supervisors

Aron Tysén, RISE

Artem Kulachenko, KTH

Prashanth Srinivasa, RISE

Sören Östlund, KTH

Welcome with your application!
If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact Prashanth Srinivasa, +46 76-876 72 32 or prashanth.srinivasa@ri.se. The last day for application is 2024-11-03. However, expressions of interest will be processed on an ongoing basis.