Experimental/Numerical Investigation of the Impact of Carbonation- and Chloride-Induced Corrosion on Confinement of Reinforced Concrete Components

Reinforced concrete is the most widely used construction material worldwide, yet its durability is increasingly challenged by exposure to aggressive environments. Carbonation and chloride ingress are two of the most critical factors leading to the corrosion of steel reinforcement, a process that undermines both serviceability and safety. While previous studies have largely concentrated on the loss of cross-sectional area of the reinforcement and the reduction in bond between steel and concrete, far less is known about the deterioration of confinement effectiveness resulting from corrosion. Confinement, however, is fundamental in ensuring ductility, enhancing strength, and sustaining seismic and structural performance.<br /> <br /> This PhD project will address this gap by combining carefully designed experimental investigations with the development of advanced analytical models. Laboratory-based testing on corroded specimens will provide new insights into how carbonation- and chloride-induced corrosion affect the mechanical behaviour of confined concrete. These findings will support the development and calibration of a stress–strain model that explicitly incorporates the mechanisms of corrosion damage. In turn, this work will offer a more robust framework for assessing the residual performance of existing reinforced concrete structures and for informing effective strategies for repair and retrofitting in environments where durability is at risk.

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences </strong></em>and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Experimental/Numerical Investigation of the Impact of Carbonation- and Chloride-Induced Corrosion on Confinement of Reinforced Concrete Components</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/civil-engineering/staff/15284/dr-francesco-pugliese">Dr Francesco Pugliese</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state in the Finance section that you are applying for the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2026/27: Civil Engineering.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Monday 17 November 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£20,780 in academic session 2025/26) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided. An additional Top-Up of £3,000 per year for 3.5 years is available to previous University of Leeds graduates.<br /> <br /> This opportunity is open to UK applicants only.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>Please note that there is only 2 funded place(s) available and there will be more than 2 projects in competition for this funding.  If you are successful in securing an academic offer for PhD study, this does not mean that you have been successful in securing an offer of funding.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Francesco Pugliese by email to <a href="mailto:F.Pugliese@leeds.ac.uk">F.Pugliese@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>