Research scientist focused on the microstructure and property analysis of magnesium alloys.

The focus of this PhD is to understand the effects of heat treatments on the creep properties and microstructure of high-pressure die-cast magnesium-rare-earth alloys. This work will assist in the producing light-weight powertrain components in automobiles which are creep resistant at the elevated temperatures.A copy of my thesis may be downloaded here:http://arrow.monash.edu.au/vital/access/manager/Repository/monash:128564Responsibilities:• Performing research and analysis of data related to an industry funded project.• Reporting to industry partners.• Microstructure investigation of Mg-Rare Earth alloys using Scanning Electron and Transmission Electron microscopy.• Experimental testing to determine the influence of different alloying additions and heat treatment conditions on castability and mechanical properties of the material under investigation.• Laboratory maintenance.• Product development.• Project management.Achievements:• Using a combination of mechanical testing and electron microscopy, an optimal magnesium alloy composition was identified. This would allow for the design of a Mg-Rare-Earth alloy with excellent mechanical properties with as little alloying additions as possible to reduce the over cost of the alloy in order to create an alternative powertrain to the existing heavier powertrains in automobiles.• A hypothesis was proposed for the design of an easily castable and creep resistant High-Pressure Die-Cast Mg-Rare Earth alloy.

Responsibilities:• Research work comprising statistical analysis of data obtained from industry-funded contact lens trials.• Evaluation of the data and then reporting the results and recommendations to industry partners. • Production of protocols in consolation with optometrists for experimental trials.