FYP Descriptions Sem 1 2017d

ENGINEERING, COMPUTING AND MATHEMATICS
Bachelor of Engineering & Master of Professional

Engineering
Final Year Project Descriptions
Semester 1, 2017
To find a project description, search (Ctrl + F) using the Supervisors surname. The project
title and description are listed below each Academics name. Please ensure that the project is
applicable to your discipline.
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FACULTYOFENGINEERING,COMPUTINGANDMATHEMATICS

Ajmal, Mian, Associate Professor
Linguistic Stylometry for Determining Authorship of
Documents
Disciplines: Computer, Software
Prerequisite skills: Python or Matlab
Linguistic stylometry is used to determine the authorship of disputed documents or
documents with unknown authors. It encodes the writer's style rather than the contents of
the document to determine the writing pattern of known authors to be matched later with
those of unknown authors. The simplest way is to record the frequencies of common words
or even characters such as "for", "the", "therefore" commas, full stops etc. In this project the
student will be required to develop an algorithm for stylemetry feature extraction or learning
(e.g. using neural networks). The student will use online novels (typed documents from
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/) to train and test their feature learning and classification
algorithms.
Ajmal, Mian, Associate Professor

Co-supervisor: Syed, Zulqarnain Gilani
Facial Expression and Emotion Recognition

Prerequisite skills: Matlab
Computers, tablets, gaming consoles and smart phones have become a daily part of our life
yet they do not understand our emotions. This project aims to develop a Deep
Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) model for facial expression (emotion) recognition
that will classify emotions into Anger, Disgust, Fear, Happiness, Neutral, Sadness or Surprise
based input video. The project does not involved data collection as it aims to use the Facial
Expression in the Wild data https://cs.anu.edu.au/few/ChallengeDetails.html which contains
training, validation and testing sets to benchmark the new algorithms against existing ones.
Aman, Zachary, Dr
Co-supervisors: May, Eric Prof, Johns, Michael Prof, Stanwix, Paul, Dr, Graham,
Brendan, Dr
Flow Assurance and Natural Gas Hydrates

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Mechanical, Oil & Gas Major
Natural gas hydrates are ice-like solids that form and can often suddenly stop the flow during
oil and gas production. The cost of their prevention during design and production is high and
the removal of hydrate plugs is expensive and dangerous. Today hydrates are still a major
flow assurance concern especially as production moves to deeper water, and many of
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Australias major new gas field developments are considering innovative approaches to this
long-standing problem. These projects aim to provide the knowledge needed for a risk-based
approach to hydrate management by establishing quantitative model to assess plugging
potential, optimize inhibitor doses, and develop methods to detect hydrate formation and
location. The outcomes will help reduce chemical use by the industry, provide better
methods to locate plugs and provide safer methods for their remediation, ultimately allowing
for the reliable and economic development of marginal oil and gas fields. Students working on
these projects will measure and/or model hydrate formation, agglomeration and dissociation
processes. Naturally-occurring gas hydrates also represent a tremendous energy reserve: in
2013, first production was reported from a naturally occurring hydrate reserve located
offshore the coast of Japan. Projects will also be available in which various properties of
these natural hydrates are quantified, such that more informed decisions regards the
exploitation of natural hydrates can be made.
An, Hongwei, Dr
Tidal current induced local scour around square pile groups

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical and Environmental
A pile group is often used as supporting frame for offshore strictures. The scour around pile
group due to tidal current is an important issue for pile groups installed in sandy seabed. This
topic will be investigated through this project. A series of physical model tests will be
conducted using the O-tube facility to measure the scour process. The equilibrium scour
depth and scour time scale will be examined. The project outcome will potentially provide
improved methods about scour protection for pile groups.
This project gives students an opportunity to access to multi-awards winning research facility
(the O-tube) and to gain experience on research about sediment transport around offshore
structures.
Aslani, Farhad, Dr
Co-supervisors: Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Ma, Guowei, Prof.
Hollow and concrete filled spiral welded steel tube columns

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical and Materials
Spiral welded tube (SWT) structures have found worldwide application in pipeline
construction, wind turbine towers, foundation piles, and columns in tall buildings. Despite
this, the understanding of SWT structures fundamental behaviour is still insufficient and
efficient analysis and design methods have not been developed owing to the lack of
experimental and numerical research on these types of structures. In this project, SWTs will
be used in a new and innovative approach for both hollow and concrete filled steel columns,
and the research will be conducted to characterise the engineering and manufacturing
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properties of SWTs. The goal of this project is to provide insight into the ultimate strength
and ductility of hollow and concrete filled SWT columns subjected to concentric axial
loading, eccentric axial loading and pure bending loading through a comprehensive
experimental study and theoretical model for adoption by engineers and Standards bodies.
Aslani, Farhad, Dr
Co-supervisors: Ma, Guowei, Prof; Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Caruana, Jason,
Mr (Industry)
Hollow and geopolymer concrete-filled GFRP tubes columns

Disciplines: Civil and Materials
Deterioration of the Australians infrastructure has been well documented and publicized.
Glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites have emerged as a potential solution to
the problems associated with the infrastructure. An economic application of GFRP materials
is in the form of composite construction with concrete, such that GFRP could act as load-
carrying partner and protective measure for the structural members. And also the concrete
industry is responsible for a significant proportion of world greenhouse gas emissions. Indeed,
manufacture of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is carbon intensive. An increase in
research activities related to the development of low carbon concrete technologies, namely
Geopolymer Concrete (GC), has occurred in recent years in Australia. GCs result from the
reaction between fly ash and/or slag with an alkaline liquid. There is no Portland cement
clinker in GC. GC exhibits many of the characteristics of traditional concretes, despite their
vastly different chemical constituents and reactions.
As the first experimental study reported in the literature on the axial compressive behaviour
of normal and high-strength box and circular hollow and geopolymer concrete-filled GFRP
tubes columns, this study will present the results of a test program that was aimed at
investigating the influence of GC, GFRP Tubes, and critical confinement parameters on the
performance of normal and high-strength box and circular hollow and geopolymer concrete-
filled GFRP tubes columns.
Aslani, Farhad, Dr
Co-supervisors: Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Ma, Guowei, Prof.
Compression buckling analysis of CFRP strengthened mild

steel
Disciplines: Civil, Software and Materials
The proposed project will present numerical and experimental analysis of 30 mild steel (250
MPa) struts strengthened using various arrangements of CFRP plates and sheets under axial
compressive load. The experimental results will be compared with finite element modelling of
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the steel struts to compare the results. Comparison will be made between the strength of
the plates and sheets in compression buckling to determine the most effective arrangement
and type of CFRP. The slenderness ratios s, of the steel struts vary from 50 to 100. While
research has been conducted on axial and bending capacities of thin walled SHS tubes,
compression buckling strength of standalone mild steel struts is lacking. This research may
be used to further extend the understanding of CFRP strengthened steel and conduct further
studies.
Aslani, Farhad, Dr
Co-supervisors: Karrech, Ali, A/Prof; Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Ma, Guowei,
Prof.
Fire-performance of concrete members reinforced with FRP

bars
Disciplines: Civil, Software and Materials
Applications of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials and products for the construction
and rehabilitation of new, durable concrete structures are rapidly becoming a viable option
for Australia critical concrete infrastructure. For new construction, FRP bars can be used as
either non-pre-stressed or pre-stressed concrete reinforcement. As an alternative to
traditional steel reinforcement bars, the interest in the use of FRP reinforcement in concrete
structures has increased significantly in recent years, For a wide use of FRP as internal
reinforcement in structural members of buildings, the ability of these materials to meet fire
resistance requirements must be established as prescribed in building codes. The proposed
study will calibrate numerical models for predicting the fire resistance of FRP-reinforced
concrete beams, columns and slabs, and design guidance suitable for use in building codes and
standards.
Beckett, Chris. Dr.

Co-supervisors: Fourie, Andy. Professor; Guzzomi, Andrew, Dr.
What's HAPpening with soil compaction?

Disciplines: Civil, Mining and Environmental
More and more operations in the Pilbara region are moving to sub-water table mining,
creating vast volumes of waste water. Water disposal will therefore become a key issue in
the North in coming years. The Hamersley Agricultural Project (HAP) forms part of Rio
Tintos innovative solution to this problem. Close to Marandoo Mine, HAP comprises 16
pivots and uses 40-120 ML of water per day. Each pivot is an 800m long arm, supported by
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rollers and fitted with water sprays. The pivots rotate about a central hub, continuously
irrigating the swept area. The system is currently used to grow Rhodes grass a high quality
animal fodder and produces over ten harvests per year for the Pilbara beef industry.
Frequent harvests and the continuous motion of the pivot means that soil compaction is a
critical issue. If unchecked, compaction will threaten crop production and so the solutions
feasibility.
Working with experts at Rio Tinto, this project will use geotechnical engineering principles
to identify current compaction levels at HAP and in the surrounding countryside and to
model and predict likely compaction in the pivot system for future management. The project
calls for at least one trip to the HAP system to conduct field tests and gather data. The
project is ideally suited to highly motivated students with interests in geotechnical and mining
engineering.
Beemer, Ryan, Dr
Characterisation of an Over Consolidated Translucent Clay
Disciplines: Civil
Translucent soils are used in geotechnical research to visualize the behaviour of soil and
foundations that are usually obfuscated by the fact natural soils are opaque. Common uses
include failure mechanism studies and anchor embedment. This research project will examine
the strength and permeability of an over consolidated translucent clay, Lithium Sodium
Magnesium (LNM) silicate. Research will involve conducting miniature shear vane, ball
penetrometer, and falling head permeability experiments. Additional computer vision
programming is possible if the student(s) is/are interested.
Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Co-supervisors: Chan, Simon, Mr
Design of a scalable battery management system for high

voltage Lithium batteries
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic
For a very long time, Lead Acid battery technologies have dominated the market for
electrical energy storage. They are used in vehicles, emergency lighting, UPS backup power
solutions, etc. Although they are attractive because of low capital cost outlay, Lead Acid
batteries also suffer from poor operating life, especially under demanding and high
temperatures working conditions.
In recent years, a number of Lithium battery chemistries have entered the market. Some of
these have extremely high energy density, but have been found to be potentially dangerous
due to their ease of combustion under certain conditions. Other Lithium technologies create
long term waste disposal problems due to their highly toxic chemistries.
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This project will focus on LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate = LiFePO4) batteries. These are very
lightweight, energy dense, and have been called The Safe Lithium by many who use these in
challenging environmental conditions.
Unlike lead acid batteries, due to their charging characteristics, Lithium batteries are not
meant to be connected in series to create a single high voltage battery. In fact, Lithium
batteries require a BMS (Battery Management System) to protect them against accidental
misuse and abuse due to mismatched cells.
The student undertaking this project will start by studying existing BMS (Battery Management
Systems) already used in many LFP batteries. After having understood the basic design
principles and features required in a BMS, the student will then explore methods to create a
modular and scalable BMS which will then allow users to connect many LFP batteries in series
to create a single bank of series connected batteries.

Design of an enhanced building or equipment access control

system
Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Software
This project aims to bolster the level of security currently available for many building and
equipment access control systems.
Just as many banks already use a multi-factor user authentication systems, this project will
leverage the computing and communications capabilities of smartphones to enable a building
or equipment management system to prevent unauthorised access.
In additional to the first layer of security (typically a PIN pad entry or swipe/smartcard access
control) a smartphone will be used to interpret a request sent by the management system to
generate a unique second level code to further authenticate the user - in conjunction with
relevant biometric information already stored on the smartphone.

Emergency first responders software tool kit

"There is an app for that" is a common catchphrase today.
This project seeks to design a Smartphone-based software tool kit to make life easier for an
Emergency first responder.
-- Provide a multi-modal work-flow system for a first responder to collect all important and
vital information relating to an incident or accident
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-- Utilising the various sensors (including camera and audio capabilities on a Smartphone) this
app would enable a first responder to capture relevant information and interact with incident
controllers in another location
-- Provide an on-board database relating to dangerous chemicals and appropriate handling
instructions
-- Provide a simple method for the first responder to interact with any victims through simple
graphical icons as well as speech-to-text // text-to-speech and automated translation tools

Evaluation of Lithium battery performance in challenging

environmental conditions
For a very long time, Lead Acid battery technologies have dominated the market for
electrical energy storage. They are used in vehicles, emergency lighting, UPS backup power
solutions, etc. Although they are attractive because of low capital cost outlay, Lead Acid
batteries also suffer from poor operating life, especially under demanding and high
temperatures working conditions.
In recent years, a number of Lithium battery chemistries have entered the market. Some of
these have extremely high energy density, but have been found to be potentially dangerous
due to their ease of combustion under certain conditions. Other Lithium technologies create
long term waste disposal problems due to their highly toxic chemistries.
This project will focus on LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate = LiFePO4) batteries. These are very
lightweight, energy dense, and have been called The Safe Lithium by many who use these in
challenging environmental conditions.
Because LFPs are relatively newcomers to the battery marketplace, there is still a lack of
objective, reliable statistics about these batteries performance in difficult environmental
conditions. The student undertaking this project will be required to design an automated data
collection system to enable rapid, accurate and high resolution reporting of Lithium battery
performance in elevated temperatures and high humidity conditions. A large number of
repeated tests will then be undertaken over the course of the project to record the long-
term charge / discharge characteristics of these LFP batteries. With the data collected, a
mathematical / statistical model will be created to explore and describe the long term
detrimental effects of high temperature and humidity on LFP battery performance.

Road condition monitoring and reporting system using

smartphones
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This project seeks to design a Smartphone-based road condition monitoring and reporting
system. Using the data gathered from accelerometers, a system would be designed and
developed to analyse road conditions using DSP (eg work out how bumpy a road is simply by
doing digital signal analysis of the 'road noise').
Collating that information along with the GPS location of the Smartphone, it becomes
possible to map in real-time the road conditions experienced by this particular road user.
Grouping together data collected by other road users for the same segment of road, it will
become possible to identify maintenance 'hot spots'. This information would then be sent to
relevant authorities for action.

Software app to assist inter-generational communications in

a multi-cultural setting
Disciplines: Software
This project seeks to utilise the computing power currently available in many smartphones
and tablets to provide a software tool to assist in inter-generational communications,
especially in a multi-cultural context.
-- Leveraging speech-to-text databases available on the Internet, provide a 'subtitle' capability
so that an older person who is hard of hearing can catch the gist of a conversation
-- Leveraging language translation tools on the Internet, provide a rapid bi-directional
translation capability for verbal conversations
-- Leveraging the large screen format of a tablet to allow an older person to select simple
sentences (ie "canned messages") to express themselves without the need to type in long
strings of words
-- Integrating all of the above into a simple to use Apple iOS and/or Android App
Braunl, Thomas, Professor

Co-supervisors: Boeing, Adrian, Dr
Electric Jetski
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronic
Our electric jetski has made some waves at the end of last year when it was first
demonstrated to the public. For 2017, we are looking at a number of additions and
improvements to make the system more useable and robust.
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Goals:
- Implementation of Battery Management System
- Development of Integrated Safety System
- Weight shifting for performance tuning
- Performance modelling, measurement and evaluation
This project will include numerous test drives with the completed jetski to collect data for
your theses.
See details at: http://revproject.com/vehicles/jetski.php

Co-supervisors: Boeing, Adrian, Dr
Autonomous Driving Systems

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronic,
Software
We are currently operating two autonomous vehicles, a donated BMW X5 and a student-
built Formula SAE-Electric vehicle. Both vehicles already include the low-level drive-by-wire
technology and are equipped with several sensor systems, including GPS, camera, Ibeo Lux
lidar (laser scanner), Xsens IMU (inertial measurement unit) and wheel encoders.
We further have the latest automotive control hardware in form of an Nvidia Jetson TX1
board that will be used for fast real-time sensor processing and deep learning algorithms.
Goals:
- Autonomous navigation on UWA-internal roads and on external race track
- Sensor fusion of GPS, Lidar, inertial measurement system, odometry
- Path planning and collision avoidance
- Vision sub-system for road and vehicle detection using OpenCV
http://opencv.org
- Exploring of deep-learning systems such as Caffe
http://caffe.berkeleyvision.org
Good programming skills in C or C++ are a prerequisite for this project.
See details at: http://revproject.com/vehicles/bmw.php

Co-supervisors: Croft, Chris, Mr
Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV)

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Mechatronic, Software
We have two autonomous submarine systems, Mako and USAL.
Both AUVs have a Raspberry-3 as controller, vision, distance sensors, IMU (inertial
measurement
unit), etc.
Goals:
- Implementation of area surveying application for autonomous AUV
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- Implementation of autonomous navigation in and mapping algorithms (SLAM) in
unknown environment
- Adaptation of AUV simulation system for our AUV models
See details at: http://robotics.ee.uwa.edu.au/auv/

Co-supervisors: Croft, Chris, Mr
Embedded Robotics
Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Mechatronic, Software
We are using a more advanced version of the lab-robots you know from Embedded Systems.
These are based on a Raspberry-3 controller, using vision, PSD distance sensors and a color
display.
For this project we are looking at the development of several practical robot applications in
the following areas:
- Autonomous navigation and path planning software in a maze environment
- Establishment of Robotics image processing library for visual navigation
- Intelligent learning systems for driving robots
- Integration of new robot features in the EyeSim simulation system
See details at: http://robotics.ee.uwa.edu.au/eyebot7/Robios7.html
Chow, Shiao Huey, Dr

Capacity of Plate Anchors in Sand
Disciplines: Civil and Oil & Gas
The development of offshore renewable energy, particularly wave energy industry has taken
off slowly due to technical and economic challenges. One critical challenge is to produce a
reliable and cost effective anchoring system to anchor the floating energy device to seabed. A
solution could be the plate anchors, which are used for mooring large floating structures for
hydrocarbon exploration in deep water. The behaviour of plate anchors has been widely
studied for application in clay, but not in sand where offshore floating renewable energy
devices are typically located. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the response of plate
anchors in sand. This project aims to develop an experimental database of plate anchor
capacity in sand considering different configurations (embedment depth, loading condition
etc.). The experimental database will contribute towards validation of failure envelopes of
plate anchor in sand developed in a companion numerical study. Interested students are
encouraged to contact Dr Shiaohuey Chow (shiaohuey.chow@uwa.edu.au) for more
information.
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Co-supervisors: Conleth O'Loughlin, Dr
Interpretation of a new generation free-fall penetrometer

Disciplines: Civil, Software, Computer and Oil & Gas
Do you like to participate in the Woodside FutureLab RiverLab working on innovative
engineering solution? This RiverLab project aims to validate and enhance an interpretation
software for a new generation free-fall penetrometer. Free-fall penetrometers are
instrumented projectiles that are deployed by allowing them to free fall and embed into the
target sediment. The use of free-fall penetrometers in offshore geotechnical site investigation
has gained increased interests, particularly in characterising the soil strength of shallow
seabed crucial for applications such as pipeline design and submarine landslide survey.
Compared to the conventional approach of using a large survey vessel and a mechanical
system for pushing a penetrometer into the seabed, free-fall penetrometers offer a cheaper
and quicker way to survey the seabed, with potentially equal accuracy if the tools are
designed and interpreted correctly. A prototype free-fall cone penetrometer (FFP) (Figure 1)
has been developed at the Centre of Offshore Foundation Systems, UWA. To interpret the
FFP test data, an interpretation software has been developed to estimate the soil undrained
shear strength. This project aims to validate the applicability of the software to other free-fall
penetrometers, and to enhance the capability of the software to include embedment depth
prediction.
The proposed project requires a team of two students working on the following scopes:
Project 1a: Validation of the interpretation software on other free-fall
penetrometers using field test data
Project 1b: Enhancement of the interpretation software to enable prediction of
the embedment depth of the FFP
Interested students are encouraged to contact Dr Shiaohuey Chow

(shiaohuey.chow@uwa.edu.au) for more information.
Figure 1 Free-fall cone penetrometer (FFP) developed at UWA
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Co-supervisors: Ivey, Greg, Professor
Oceanic turbulence mixing and material transport

Disciplines: Civil, Environmental and Ocean Systems
Turbulence is ubiquitous in aquatic environments such as lakes, estuaries, and in the ocean. It
causes stirring at much faster rates than molecular diffusion and controls the distribution of
contaminants, nutrients, temperature, and small organisms. Because of the challenges in
obtaining direct mixing measurements under field conditions, most predictive mixing
relationships are derived from idealized engineering flows or from controlled experiments at
much lower turbulence intensities than observed in nature.
This project focuses on a field dataset collected as part of a multi-institutional project in the
Tasman Sea (https://scripps.ucsd.edu/projects/ttide/). New theories to predict mixing will be
assessed against field measurements collected near the bottom of the Tasman Sea
(student 1), while through-water column biophysical measurements (currents, temperature,
fluorescence, nutrients and sediment) will be analyzed (student 2) to determine the link
between turbulence mixing and the vertical/horizontal fluxes of the measured water quality
indicators.
Chua, Hui Tong, Professor
High flux bright light synthesis of valuable nanomaterials

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Materials, Mechanical
This project makes use of a first-of-its-kind high flux bright light facility to synthesise valuable
nanomaterials. For example, we aim to synthesise MoS2 and WS2 nanoparticles from their
naturally occuring MoS2 and WS2 materials. The former materials have phenomenal
applications in engine and medical applications. They are mainly used as advanced lubricants
in those applications, but are also very promising as materials for supercapacitors as well.
Resources permit, we will also work on synthesising graphene from graphite particles, which
has great applications in batteries, supercapacitors and membranes, or boron nitride
nanoparticles from boron nitride.
Catalytic cracking of methane for graphitic carbons and

hydrogen
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Materials
This is an ongoing project with the UWA ASX-listed spinoff company, Hazer Group, to focus
on producing graphene by cracking methane. There will be two aspects to this project. One
is to work on fine-tuning the catalytic process to get consistent and good yield, another is to
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work on purifying the as-cracked carbons in favour of graphene and other carbon
morphologies.
The Hazer technology has been spun off from UWA lab and is now worth $20mil.
Industrial waste heat distillation, desalination, bauxite

residue remediation
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Mechanical
This topic will have 3 sub-topics.
1. Reconcentrating spent liquor using waste heat from an alumina refinery - 2 students.
2. Freeze desalination - using electricity to freeze ice from seawater so as to rival reverse
osmosis - 1 student.
3. Bauxite residue remediation - using centrifuge to dewater mining residue, an exciting

technology - 1 student. This project is to be co-supervised by Prof. Andy Fourie of Civil
Engineering.

Geothermal energy
1. Modelling and Controlling geothermal swimming pool - this is an ongoing topic to work
with a local council on managing geothermal swimming pools. The student needs to
physically visit the Beatty Park Leisure Centre or other swimming pools to collect pool data -
1 student.
2. The Cool Earth Project - this is an exciting project in partnership with LandCorp,
Geoexchange, ABN builders, AIRAH, Carbonomics and other agencies to monitor the
performance of two occupied properties at Craigie, with one being fitted with a ground
source heat pump and another with a conventional air source heat pump. - 1 student.
Ciancio, Daniela, Dr
Co-supervisors: Beckett, Chris, Dr; Meek, Alexandra
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Experimental analysis of rammed earth insulated panels
The aims of this project are 1) to understand the structural performance of insulated
(sandwich) rammed earth walls and 2) to create guidelines for the appropriate design of ties
in load bearing insulated walls. The students will work in the UWA Structures laboratory.
The experimental program is energy and time intensive, hence a group of at least 4 students
is required.
Candidates for this project should have a strong background in structural analysis and solid
mechanics.
Croft, Chris, Mr
Co-supervisors: Braunl, Thomas, Professor
Drones / Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronic,
Software
Drones are a new technology area with almost unlimited application areas from mining to
agriculture, from architecture to logistics.
In this project we want students to develop autonomous control and guidance software for
an advanced hexacopter system. We are using an open source Pixhawk controller in
combination with a Raspberry Pi-3 for implementing practical application systems for the
drone. See: https://pixhawk.org
Goals:
- Autonomous mapping of specified 2D area (e.g. crop surveying)
- Autonomous mapping of presented 3D object
- Sensor fusion between GPS, inertial measurement unit, laser distance measurement.
Doyle, Barry, Dr
Vascular engineering
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Civil, Computer,Electrical & Electronic,
Materials,Mechanical, Software
Prerequisite skills: A passion for combining engineering with medicine and life
sciences
From the most basic engineering point of view, the cardiovascular system is a pump
connected to a series of elastic pipes. However, this system is prone to sub-optimal
performance and even failure; otherwise known as cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the
worlds biggest killer and currently takes 1 Australian life every 12 minutes! It kills far more
people than cancer and with the shifting trend in the worlds population (people are living a
lot longer nowadays), is becoming a huge burden on health care systems.
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At the Vascular Engineering Laboratory (VascLab) we perform both computational and
experimental research into CVD with an overall aim of creating new and innovative ways to
save lives and reduce the impact of this disease. We work very closely with scientists and
surgeons across UWA and internationally and ensure our research is clinically-relevant.
We have numerous projects on offer each semester and some examples for this round are:
Abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture prediction -
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA; pronounced triple A) is a ballooning of the lower part of
your aorta, approximately behind the belly button. It is common in elderly men and is
typically symptomless; the first time you know you have one is often when it bursts, which is
too late and usually results in death. Up to 9% of men over 65 years old are living with AAA,
and many will be unaware. Currently, surgeons will operate when the diameter of the AAA
exceeds 5.5 cm. However, only 1 in 10 will rupture in the patients lifetime, and smaller ones
can rupture while larger ones can remain stable There is urgent need to redefine the risk
assessment of AAA.
At the Vascular Engineering Laboratory (VascLab) and in collaboration with the Intelligent
Systems Laboratory, we have developed a new software platform (BioPARR) to analyse AAA
and determine rupture risk. This project will entail working as a team to analyse many
patients. Each student will be assigned 20 patients. They will begin by merging CT and MRI
data together, convert the 3D reconstruction into a computational mesh, perform a finite
element simulation, and analyse the results. The entire workflow is performed within
BioPARR. This is part of a much larger NHMRC-funded project run by Barry Doyle and your
contribution will help towards changing clinical practice and potentially save thousands of
lives.
Computational modelling of retinal haemodynamics -
The tiny vessels in the back of the eye are one of the very few places that we can see the
microvasculature non-invasively. Cardiovascular disease typically begins in these small vessels
first many years before the condition is visible in the larger arteries (eg. coronary arteries).
Therefore, identifying people with heart disease long before it becomes a major health
problem has major importance. Fundus photographs are the common method of viewing the
back of the eye. We have developed a method of converting these simple 2D photos into
computational models for CFD. This project will entail developing a GUI and refined software
platform for our method and applying it to about 20 patients. You will use CFD to determine
the flow patterns, wall shear stress (WSS) in the vessels.
Haemodynamics in common iliac artery aneurysms -
Aneurysms isolated in the common iliac artery are very rare. There is little knowledge as to
why and how an aneurysm will develop in this artery but not in the more frequent upstream
location of the abdominal aorta (AAA). This project aims to generate important data on the
flow dynamics in these aneurysms and develop an understanding as to what geometric
configurations promote aneurysm growth.
The student will build upon a body of research performed at VascLab and create idealised
geometries of the iliac bifurcation with a range of common iliac aneurysms. Computational
fluid dynamics will be used to model the flow within these geometries and analyse important
flow metrics that are linked to disease.
All projects will run within the Vascular Engineering Laboratory (VascLab) at the Harry
Perkins Institute of Medical Research - the premier medical institute in WA. It is expected
that each project will be published in a journal upon completion. For more info on VascLab,
visit http://vasclab.mech.uwa.edu.au
https://www.perkins.org.au/our-research/divisions/cardiovascular-diabetes/vascular-
engineering/
16


Durham, Richard, Prof
Industry topic (usually based on your vacation work)

Disciplines: Mining
During your vacation work over the 2016-2017 summer break, you should ask your
employer if they have any topic(s) suitable for your thesis. Ask them at the beginning, and
then again towards the end. You need to write up the topic on <1 page, and send it to me.
There might be a little negotiation whilst I ensure the topic is suitable (basically not too small,
not too big, and involves some research type analysis), but once we've agreed on the scope
and objectives it's all fine.
Usually up to 50% of mining students get industry based thesis topics like this. They tend to
be single student projects, but a multi-student topic can be considered.
Dyskin, Arcady, Prof

Co-supervisors: Pasternak, Elena, Professor
Oscillations in reinforced concrete

Disciplines: Civil and Mechanical
Analysis of oscillations in reinforced concrete beam considering different beam stiffnesses
exhibiting in bending in different directions

Co-supervisors: Pasternak, Elena, Professor
Asteroid mining
Disciplines: Civil and Mining
Research in the state of art in the necessity, mining methods and transportation means for
extracting rare Earth resources from asteroids and other extraterrestrial bodies.

Co-supervisors: Pasternak, Elena, Professor; Lehane, Barry, Professor
Seismic proof interlocking structures
17


Stability of and energy dissipation in interlocking structures will be studied numerically and
experimentally using a shaking table
Elchalakani, Mohamed, Dr.

Co-supervisors: Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Karrech, Ali, Dr; Ma, Guowei, Prof;
Aslani, Farhad, Dr
FE Modeling of Concrete Filled Tubular Columns

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical, Software
In Australian modern construction, concrete filled steel tubular columns are becoming a
popular method of construction particularly for high rise buildings. Limited experimental tests
showed that concrete filling may delay or fully prevent local buckling of the external steel
tubes. The main factor affect the response is the diameter-to-thickness ratio of the steel
tubes and the strength of concrete. The full range of D/t ratios was not tested. Wide
variations among the international design codes such as AS3600 to predict the strength of
such columns. This project will focus on the use of the Finite Element method an an effective
approach to provide design models for such composite columns and to provide valuable
information on their response. The results will be recommended as a future amendment for
AS3600, the Australian Concrete Design Code.

Co-supervisors: Ma, Guowei, Prof; Aslani, Farhad, Dr
GFRP RC Columns under Dynamic Lateral Impact

Disciplines: Civil, Oil & Materials
The use of Glass Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) reinforcement as an alternative to steel
for use in Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures has developed significantly in recent years.
GFRPs excellent corrosion resistance, high tensile-strength-to-weight ratio, nonmagnetic,
nonconductive make it an excellent solution for projects requiring improved corrosion
resistance or reduced maintenance costs. Despite a number of recent studies illustrating the
effective use of GFRP rebars as longitudinal reinforcement for concrete compression
members, the current international design codes such as ACI 440.1R-15 (2015), CAN/CSA
S806 (2012), TR55 (2012), ISO 10406-1 (2015), and FIB (2007) do not recommend including
GFRP reinforcement in the compression member capacity calculations.
Recent Experimental research at UWA showed that GFRP RC columns are more ductile
under their steel RC column counterparts. This project is a further step to compare the
behaviour and design of such columns under dynamic loading.
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GFRP RC Beams under Dynamic Lateral Impact

Disciplines: Civil, Oil & Materials
S806 (2012), TR55 (2012), ISO 10406-1 (2015), and FIB (2007) do not provide design rules
for GFRP RC beams under lateral impact
Recent Experimental research at UWA showed that GFRP RC beams are more ductile under
their steel RC beam counterparts under static loading. This project is a further step to
compare the behaviour and design of such beams under impact loading.
Faiello, Cosimo, Associate Professor

Sustainability applied to project management & engineering
practice
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Civil, Electrical & Electronic, Computer,
Environmental, Materials, Mechanical, Mining, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
This topic will introduce students to the field of project management and engineering
practice with a focus on achieving sustainable results based on a triple bottom line (TBL)
approach: That is, achieving project objectives, while taking into account the societal and
environmental implications of a project. A sustainable approach to project management and
engineering practice is recognised globally by many organizations, as being vital to achieving
their strategic objectives. By researching this topic students will learn how to apply
theoretical concepts and frameworks to real world projects in order to achieve sustainable
outcomes using a TBL strategy.
Feng, Xiaowei, Dr
Effect of interface roughness on the bearing capacity of

rectangular foundations
Disciplines: Civil, Environmental, Mining, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
In this project, vertical bearing capacity of rectangular foundations with various interface
conditions will be investigated. Commercial software package, ABAQUS, for finite-element
19


simulation will be employed for analysing the vertical capacity (FE models will be provided).
The coupling effect of the interface roughness, foundation shape and the soil strength
heterogeneity factor will be presented. The research outcomes will benefit the design of
subsea foundations for offshore oil and gas developments.
Feng, Xiaowei, Dr
Consolidated undrained load-carrying capacity of rectangular

Disciplines: Civil, Mining, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
In this project, the consolidated undrained load-carrying capacity of rectangular foundations
will be investigated. Commercial software package, ABAQUS, for finite-element simulation
will be employed for analysing the foundation capacity (Example CAE model will be
provided). The critical state soil mechanics model, Modified Cam-clay, will be employed. The
dissipation of excess pore pressure and consolidation of the subsoil will be examined for
various levels of self-weight preloading. The gain in vertical and overturning moment capacity
due to the increase in soil shear strength following the primary consolidation will be
presented.
Feng, Xiaowei, Dr
Effect of interface roughness on the bearing capacity of

rectangular foundations
Disciplines: Civil, Environmental, Mining, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
In this project, vertical bearing capacity of rectangular foundations with various interface
conditions will be investigated. Commercial software package, ABAQUS, for finite-element
simulation will be employed for analysing the vertical capacity (FE models will be provided).
The coupling effect of the interface roughness, foundation shape and the soil strength
heterogeneity factor will be presented. The research outcomes will benefit the design of
subsea foundations for offshore oil and gas developments.
Fourie, Andy, Prof

Co-supervisors: Lehane, Barry, Prof
Strategies to reduce the risk of liquefaction of layered soils

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical Mining and Environmental
Recent events, such as the collapse of the Samarco tailings dam in Brazil in 2015, have
demonstrated the catastrophic consequences of liquefaction of a layered soil deposit.
Layering of a deposit, such as invariably occurs in a tailings dam (and also in many natural
deposits), can result in unusual and unexpected responses to various loading conditions. This
project will use a newly acquired shake-table to design and conduct a range of experiments
20


that will help to explain conditions under which the layering of a soil deposit may lead to
problems of liquefaction. Work will include the development of techniques for preparing the
experimental facility and filling it with tailings from an operational WA mine, selection and
commissioning of suitable instrumentation, completion of a suite of experiments, all
complemented by some numerical modeling. The project is thus suitable for a team of 3 to 4
students, as independent work packages are easily defined.
Fourie, Andy, Prof

Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark Prof; While, Lyndon, Dr
Optimising the performance of thickeners used in mining

applications
Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Computer, Electrical and Electronic,

Mechanical, Mining, Mechatronic, Software and Environmental
Thickeners are used in the mining industry to separate water from the waste material
(tailings) that remain after the mineral in question has been extracted. These thickeners are
multi-million dollar structures, yet their operational systems are inefficient. The recent,
structural failure of a very large thickener in Chile has illustrated the importance of better
understanding how the nature of the ore body affects the performance of these thickeners,
and the role of variability of the thickener feed in affecting performance of these structures.
This project will develop a system for real-time measurement, reaction and optimisation of
the various components of such a thickener. Individual student projects will deal with specific
components of the thickener operation, with the objective of finally integrating these
components to produce a working process control procedure.
Fourie, Andy, Prof

Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark Prof; While, Lyndon, Dr
Using electric fields to extract minerals from mine waste

Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Electrical and Electronic, Mechanical,
Mining, Mechatronic and Environmental
Previous work at UWA has developed techniques for removing water from very wet and soft
soils using electric fields. Follow-up work has demonstrated that in-situ treatment of
contaminated soils is also achievable using these techniques. This project will further develop
possible applications of the technology, using electrokinetic processes to extract valuable
minerals from mine tailings deposits. There are many mine waste deposits (tailings) that still
contain high grades of unrecovered minerals, e.g. the tailings storage facility of a mine in
Queensland is now the world's tenth largest zinc deposit. The objective of the project will be
to recover minerals without needing to excavate and process the waste; rather, the process
will be in-situ treatment, which is environmentally far more favourable. The project will be to
undertake laboratory tests using previously designed equipment, and evaluate the recovery
21


potential of a range of valuable minerals from tailings that will be sourced from a range of
sites in WA.
French, Tim, Dr
Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark, Prof, Cripps, Ed, Dr
Modelling Uncertainty in Complex Processes

Disciplines: All
Prerequisite skills: Excellent Mathematical Skills and Programming Experience
Many complex real world process such as vehicle schedule or plant control can be modelled
as a discrete logical component (internal state) and a continuous component (such as time,
position). They also involve a significant amount of uncertainty (such as when an event may
happen). This project will investigate several case studies and investigate methods and
theories for managing the uncertainty. This will involve learning from historical data to build
models of uncertainty, and applying these models in simulations to facilitate accurate
prediction and control.
French, Tim, Dr
Co-supervisors: McDonald, Chris, Dr, Hassan, Mubashar Ghullam, Dr
Autonomous Transport Model
Disciplines: Computer, EE, Mechatronics, Software

Prerequisite skills: Strong programming skills, basic electronics skills.
The aim of this project is to design and build a table top model that can support
investigations of autonomous vehicle networks. The model will consist of bluetooth
controlled vehicles, raspberry pi microcomputers, a data projector and a machine vision
camera. This is a complex large scale project, but the first phase will focus on building a basic
control loop that can detect the location of different vehicles, and based on this pass driving
instructions onto those vehicles. Later phases and projects will involve modelling
observability and implementing traffic routing algorithms.
22


French, Tim, Dr
Co-supervisors: Durham, Richard, Professor
Visualisation of Geological Features and Processes
Disciplines: Computer, EE, Mechatronics, Software, Mining, O&G

Prerequisite skills: Excellent programming skills.
Virtual Reality Systems like oculus rift and etc vive offer the potential to enhance modelling in
the geological sciences. Understanding mine layouts, or interpreting geological data require
an engineer or geologist to create a mental model of the 3d structures and their relations in
space. This project will investigate the potential for VR to aid this process, and will involve
designing and implementing basic modelling apps. We are particularly interested in methods
to visualise uncertainty, and allow real time interaction and manipulation of the data.
French, Tim, Dr
Co-supervisor: Male, Sally, Dr
Virtual Reality Work Integrated Learning Primary

Supervisor
Disciplines: All
Prerequisite skills: Significant Programming Experience Suitable for all
disciplines
This project will design and build virtual reality exercises to enhance engineering education.
This will involve creating virtual environments and workflows that capture scenarios and
decisions from engineering workplaces. These immersive exercises can then be tested using
VR hardware such as the Oculus Rift or HTC Vive. The project will aim to deliver prototype
exercises as well as a documented development procedure incorporating best practice.
Fridjonsson, Einar, Dr
Co-supervisors: Johns, Michael Prof; Aman, Zachary Dr; Stanwix, Paul, Dr
Oilfield Water Management

Natural gas (and oil) extraction results in the production of substantial quantities of
(formation) water. This water is required to be discharged back to sea following separation
from the hydrocarbon fluid. Increasingly this separation is being pursued sub-sea, such that
water treatment on the surface is avoided. Such sub-sea technology is particularly relevant
to floating LNG production facilities. We are currently developing technology to both
23


monitor the ppm oil contamination of this discharge water such that it is compliant with
environmental legislation, as well as the use of novel NMR-based flow metering methods for
oil/gas/water production flow quantification. Projects are available in which further validation
of these technologies will be conducted as well as their adaptation for sub-sea deployment.
We also consider optimum desalination of sea water for the provision of required process
water and the effective separation of frequently encountered and troublesome water-in-
crude oil emulsions into their constituent parts.
Ghadouani, Anas, Professor

Co-supervisors: Pattiaratchi, Charitha, Prof; Reichwaldt, Elke, Research Fellow
Microplastics in urban water and wastewater

Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Computer, Electrical & Electronic , Oil &
Gas Environmental, Mechanical, Ocean Systems & Software
Microplastics are small plastic pieces that contaminate water resources. They are ingested by
organisms and provide a potential pathway for the transfer of pollutants such as PCBs and
plastic additives. An important source of microplastics is through domestic sewage
contaminated by fibers from washing clothes and from microbeads that are contained in
cosmetics. Currently wastewater treatment facilities are not designed to effectively filter out
microbeads. This topic could include investigating options for large scale treatment of
microplastics in wastewater treatment plants and to understand the major pathways of
plastics from the household into the environment. This project will be supported by
oceanographer Dr. Julia Reisser from The Ocean Cleanup Foundation
(https://www.theoceancleanup.com/about/)

Co-supervisors: Reichwaldt, Elke, Research Fellow
Engineering solutions for biosolid management in

wastewater
Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Computer, Environmental, Mechanical,
Mining, Ocean Systems & Software
The management of biosolids, produced during wastewater treatment, represents a large part
of the costs for water utilities. Depending on their source, biosolids have the potential of
being reused which could compensate for some of these costs. This topic could examine the
production of biosolids from various wastewater sources (e.g., mining, domestic, industrial)
and investigate novel engineering solutions for sustainable biosolid management that will
ultimately lead to the reduction of associated costs.
24



Ecological Engineering solutions for sustainable water

management
Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Computer, Environmental, Mechanical,
Mining, Ocean Systems & Software
This open topic might include investigating ecological engineering solutions for wastewater
treatment and for water quality management in natural water bodies, including the mitigation
of (toxic) cyanobacterial blooms. This could also include investigating the triggers of
cyanotoxin production in a variety of water bodies.

Engineering solutions to wastewater treatment

Disciplines: Civil, Chemical & Process, Computer, Electrical & Electronic , Oil &
Gas Environmental, Mechanical, Mining & Software
This topic might include work into investigating the bio-physical coupling in waste stabilisation
ponds; the assessment of hydrodynamics in ponds of different design; the effect of attached
growth baffles on water quality improvement; the occurrence, fate and mitigation of (toxic)
cyanobacterial blooms in waste stabilisation ponds.
Glance, David
Chat bots for providing motivational support
Prerequisite skills: Students with 2 years Computer Science study
Chat bots for providing motivational support. Keeping people active, going to a gym or on a
diet is difficult. Motivation is key and providing support for basic psychological needs
(Autonomy, Competence, Relatedness) has been shown to increase intrinsic motivation. Text
messages with motivational messaging helps but there is more scope for chat bots to engage
in more comprehensive support of these needs. The project will explore the technologies of
developing chat bots and adding them to a mobile and web application.
25


Glance, David, Dr
Machine learning algorithms to predict when someone is

going to abandon an activity challenge
Prerequisites: Students with 2 years Computer Science study
Machine learning algorithms to predict when someone is going to abandon an activity
challenge. Keeping people active is very difficult. Corporate activity challenges encourage
people to use wearables and achieve 10k steps a day for 12 weeks. During that time, about
30% of participants stop the challenge. You are more likely to abandon the challenge as an
individual participant not in a team. It would be ideal if we could identify participants who
were likely to drop out from their activity patterns and intercede.
.
Gong, Peijun, Research Associate

Co-supervisors: Sampson, Danuta, Research Associate at LEI; Sampson, David,
Professor
OBEL: Methods for non-invasive optical imaging of blood

vessels
Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical, Software
In OBEL, we have been working on the development of non-invasive optical imaging of blood
vessels in humans which is important in skin scarring and healing, diabetes, and in retinal
diseases. This project will involve the design and manufacturing of an imaging phantom to
mimic the blood flow in biological tissue, capturing images, and improving data analysis
techniques to segment the blood vessels. As a step toward clinical applications, the
effectiveness of the data analysis techniques on human clinical data will also be investigated.
Students are expected to have knowledge or interest in materials, electronics or computer
programming. Come and talk to us about this project.
Gong, Peijun, Research Associate

Co-supervisors: Sampson, David, Professor
OBEL: Pushing imaging into the UV

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical,
Mechatronic, Software
UV and narrow band visible light provide exciting opportunities to build contemporary
endoscopes and microscopes that may make cancer more readily detectable. This project
will investigate optical engineering of instruments that have a fundamentally new take on the
26


age old problem of contrast. Build your own UV or narrow-band microscope or endoscope
and put it to work.
Graham, Brendan, Dr
Co-supervisors: Aman, Zachary, Dr
Surface Active Components in Crude Oil

Crude oils contain many compounds from simple hydrocarbons to complicated multi-
functional complex molecules Some of these compounds are organic acids and salts, alcohols
and other natural surface-active agents (surfactants). When crude oil is brought in contact
with brine or water, these natural surfactants accumulate at the interface and form an
adsorbed film. Depending on the properties of the crude oil, the structure of the film can
vary significantly thereby affecting various phenomena such as emulsion stability, hydrate
growth etc. Students involved in this project will be involved in the fractionation, isolation,
and characterisation of surface active agents in various crude oils. The effect of these agents
on oil/water emulsion stability and hydrate crystal growth rates will be investigated through
the use of both practical experiments and advanced characterisation techniques such as NMR
and Gas Chromatography.
Grime, Andrew, Dr
Co-supervisors: Chen, Lifen, Dr
Testing of innovative concept design for floating buoy

structure
Disciplines: Civil, Ocean Systems, Oil & Gas
Crondall Energy is a leading independent consulting organisation providing strategic,
commercial and technical services for offshore oil and gas projects that use floating
production technology. Crondall Energy is developing a Not Normally Manned (NNM)
floating production buoy technology to fill the gap between subsea tie-backs and full facility
floaters, and create a low cost development solution for water depths where fixed NNM
solutions are not feasible. The hydrodynamic response of the unmanned floater will be
investigated in this project through scale model experimental testing using the Riverlab
facility. This will be complemented by performing hydrodynamic analyses using state of the
art software. A parametric analysis will be carried out to optimize the design.
Grime, Andrew, Dr
Co-supervisors: Pinna, Rod, Dr
Use of Artificial Neural Networks in Predicting Floater

Response
27


Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical, Ocean Systems, Oil & Gas
Prerequisite skills: VBA or other programming, Excel
Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) allow for the prediction of responses based on input
data. To do this, they require a large training database of information. A key set of
responses for floating structures, particularly for early concept design, are Response
Amplitude Operators (RAOs). While generating RAOs is relatively fast it is still a time
consuming step particularly in the early stages of design where a large number of structures
with varying dimensions are being considered. The aim of this project is to generate a
database of typical semi-submersible dimension and corresponding RAOs. This database will
then be used to train the ANN to allow for the rapid determination of RAOs for new
designs. If time permits, the project may be expanded to encompass other design variables.
The project will require VBA programming, to automate the initial generation of the
response database.
Grime, Andrew, Dr
Co-supervisors: Pinna, Rod, Dr
Use of directional metocean data in offshore platform design

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical, Ocean Systems, Oil & Gas
Prerequisite skills: Structural Design
Metocean design data is usually presented in terms of both omni-direction and direction
wave data. For new build designs it is typical to use omni-directional data as it represents a
conservative basis for design. The use of direction wave data is permitted by ISO 19902, but
the wave data is required to be adjusted so as to result in a design with the same probability
of failure as one designed to omni-directional waves. There is no agreed upon method for
doing this, though typically it is done by increasing the return period of the directional wave.
This method, of using a higher return period directional wave, can lead to inconsistencies
such as the directional wave height exceeding the omni-directional wave height. For platform
reassessment and life extension, the use of directional data may provide the opportunity to
demonstrate that a structure is adequate even though it may not pass with an omni-direction
check. This inconsistency in wave height makes the use of omni-directional wave data difficult
in reassessment.
For this project it is proposed to design a number of simplified example fixed jacket
structures using both omni-direction and scaled directional wave data. The return period of
failure of the structure will be found for the various structures. Comparisons of the reliability
of the structures when wave-in-deck effects are considered will be made. The reliability will
be assessed through push-over analysis
Guzzomi, Andrew, Dr
Co-supervisors: Peressini, Carlo, Dr
Agricultural engineering and robotics

Disciplines: Mechanical, Mechatronic
28


The West Australian grain industry produces 45% of Australias wheat from farms that are
often vast remote areas. This R&D project will focus on the group's cutting edge targeted
tillage technology, Discrete Element Modelling (DEM) of tool-soil-plant impact phenomena
and multi-physics models. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic new group that is
well funded and considered state-of-the-art in this field.
Guzzomi, Andrew, Dr
Co-supervisors: Erickson, Todd, Dr (UWA School of Plant Biology), Merritt,
David, Dr (Kings Park & Botanic Gardens)
Restoration engineering - agricultural engineering for

rehabilitation of remote mining operations
Disciplines: Mechanical, Mechatronic
This project will improve our ability to restore sites using native seed. Research topics
include: the development of seed coating/pelleting technologies, large-scale/broadacre
precision sowing, robotics and automation/mechanisation. The outcomes will be applicable to
the agricultural sector (i.e. farming) and areas suffering from desertification as well as mine
site restoration. Students will join a multi-disciplinary team conducting leading-edge research
in restoration and agricultural engineering.
Hakan, Basarir, Dr
Co-supervisors: Karrech, Ali, Dr
The analysis of stresses around advancing longwall face: A

parametric study
Longwall mining is a widely used method in underground coal mines. The assessment of the
stresses around the advancing longwall face is very important, not only for designing safe
main and tail gate support systems but also for maintaining the overall stability of
underground coal panel. Traditionally empirical and semi empirical methods are used for the
prediction of stresses (Whitttaker and Singh 1979; Hudson, 1993; Wilson, 1983). But such
methods are restricted by simplifying assumptions (Basarir et al., 2014).
The purpose of this project is to analyze the effect of different parameters such as coal seam
thickness, inclination and production sequences. For this purpose 2D and/or 3D finite
element (FE) method based software will be used. The results of numerical modeling will be
analysed in detail and the conclusions about the effect of aforementioned parameters will be
driven.
Wilson, A. 1983. The stability of underground workings in the soft rocks of the coal. Int J Min
Eng ; 1:91-187.
Whittaker, B., Singh, R. 1979. Design and stability of pillars in longwall mining. Min Eng;
139:59-70.
Hudson, JA (ed). 1993. Comprehensive Rock Engineering. Oxford: Pergamon Press
29


Basarir, H., Oge, I. F., Aydin, O., 2015. Prediction of the stresses around main and tail gates
during top coal caving by 3D numerical anlaysis. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and
Mining Sciences, 76, 88-97.
Hakan, Basarir, Dr
Co-supervisors: Karrech, Ali, Dr
The optimization of drilling machine operational parameters

considering penetration rate
Diamond bit drilling is used almost in every area of mining such as prospecting, development,
production and grouting. During drilling operations both rock properties such as RQD, UCS
and machine operational parameters such as bit load (BL), bit rotation (RPM) and pressure
loss (PL) are continuously recorded.
Among others, bit load (BL) and bit rotation (BR) are the most important machine
operational parameters affecting penetration rate (PR) (Basarir et al., 2014). Normally in
drilling operations either BL or RPM can be increased to get higher penetration rate for a
certain depth of advance, while keeping the other constant (Akun and Karpuz, 2005). The
purpose of this project is to conduct an optimization study to predict best BL and RPM
combination to get the highest possible PR. By this way, mining companies can maximize
penetration rate and save drilling time. For this project the necessary field data can either
come from operating mining companies or from literature.
Akun, M.E., Karpuz, C., 2005. Drillability studies of surface-set diamond drilling in Zonguldak
region sandstones from Turkey. Int. J. Rock Mech. Min. Sci. 42, 473479.
Basarir, H., Tutluoglu, L., Karpuz, C., 2014. Penetration rate prediction for diamond bit
drilling by adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and multiple regressions. Engineering
Geology, 173 (1), 1-9.
Hakan, Basarir, Dr
Dynamic testing of ground support to simulate underground

The use of Glass Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) reinforcement as an alternative to steel
for use in Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures has developed significantly in recent years.
S806 (2012), TR55 (2012), ISO 10406-1 (2015), and FIB (2007) do not recommend including
GFRP reinforcement in the compression member capacity calculations.
30


Recent Experimental research at UWA showed that GFRP RC columns are more ductile
under their steel RC column counterparts. This project is a further step to compare the
behaviour and design of such columns under dynamic loading.
Hill, Martin, Associate Professor
Subwavelength Plasmon mode Lasers

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic
Miniaturization in lasers has in recent years taken a leap forward by employing metal
structures to confine light in resonators with dimensions smaller than the wavelength of the
emitted light itself. Challenges still remain though to make these lasers a useful alternative
compared to much larger devices based on dielectric resonators. In the electrical, electronic
and computer engineering school cleanroom we are attempting to make lasers which will
exploit a new more efficient metal-insulator-metal waveguide structure.
A final year projects associated with this work could involve the following: Modelling and
simulation of laser cavities based on fabricated waveguides, but adding patterning to form 2
dimensional Bragg gratings (photonic crystal like structures) based on plasmons. If successful
the modelled structures could be actually implement in fabricated waveguide structures via
focused ion beam milling.
The modelling and simulation will require the following: 1) a good knowledge of
electromagnetic theory (Maxwells equations). 2) Using a Linux based simulation
environment. 3) Using simulations tools which require the structure to be programmed in
either C or a Lisp like language.
Useful background reading on the subject would be:
Hill, M. T. & Gather M. C. Advances in small lasers. Nature Photonics 8, 908918 (2014).
Ma, R.-M., Oulton, R. F., Sorger, V. J. & Zhang, X. Plasmon lasers: coherent light source at
molecular scales. Laser Photonics Reviews 7, 121 (2013).
Barnes, W. L., Dereux, A. & Ebbesen, T. W. Surface plasmon subwavelength optics. Nature
424, 824830 (2003).
Hodkiewicz, Melinda, Professor

Co-supervisors: While, Lyndon, Dr; Walker, Andrew Mr (Fleet Engineering)
Maintenance simulation and optimisation

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical, Mechanical, Mining, Software
Prerequisite Skills: Demonstrated experience in Python or other high level
language
Can you program in Python, or a similar high-level language? We are looking for students
with Python programming ability to build a simulation and optimisation models to provide
practical insight to the mobile fleet owners about maintenance policies and how these impact
operation. In addition to working on the simulation, the students will also develop genetic
algorithms and similar optimisation techniques to support decision making. We will be
working with Fleet Engineering https://fleeteng.com.au/
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Hodkiewicz, Melinda, Professor

Co-supervisors: Various Acads, depending on project (see below)
Predicting reliability performance

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical, Materials, Mechanical, Mining, Software
Prerequisite Skills: Project 1 - D or HD in Geng5507 or strong machine learning
background
Project 2 - hands on experimental testing, ability or willingness to learn
programming Arduinos, making PCBs and dealing with sensors, and
experimental design
Project 3 - strong interest in materials eng and interest in hands on experimental
testing
There are a number of projects in the System Health lab aimed at understanding factors that
impact reliability of various assets.
Projects for 2017 may include 1) analytics on computer components (using records kept by
the UWA IT group) - with Tim French and Dave Sawyers , 2) accelerated life testing of 3D
parts - with Tim Sercombe, 3) Drone motor testing - with Adrian Keating.
Hsieh, Ariel, Research Associate

Co-supervisors: Basarir, Hakan, A/Prof
Fly Ash Slag Binder Combination for Concrete

Disciplines: Civil
Many construction products require cement and the pollution due to cement production is a
problem in many countries (approximately 1 tonne cement produces 1 tonne CO2). There is
a growing awareness of this problem in Government agencies and among public and there is
a push to reduce pollution.
Recent researches indicate that geopolymer binder is a promising alternative to Portland
cement. It is produced mostly from industrial bye-products such as flay ash and blast furnace
slag. Previous research has been done on replacing cement in concrete for heat curing
(Temuujin et al, 2009) and also curing at room temperature (Pradip Nath et al, 2015). The
initial results indicate that concrete produced with geopolymer binder is superior in strength
and durability to concrete produced with Portland cement, under laboratory conditions.
Many concrete producers are currently using fly ash and slag to partially replace cement in
concrete. However, more research and industry acceptance is required prior to the full
replacement of cement by geopolymers in concrete products.
In this research, we use earth brick to demonstrate the change in strength due to different
recipes of fly ash, slag, and cement mixture. No research has been done on the potential use
of fly ash and slag for stabilized brick production. This research projects aims to produce fly
ash, slag and a combined geopolymer for brick stabilization and carry out uniaxial
compressive strength tests to confirm the usefulness of geopolymer mix in brick production.
A model of strength variation can be established based on experimental results.
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Hu, Pan, Dr
Co-supervisors: Bienen, Britta, Dr; Cassidy, Mark, Professor
Combined capacity of spudcan and sand plug in the

underlying clay of sand-over-clay soils
Disciplines: Civil, Oil & Gas
In offshore oil and gas fields, the majority of drillings in water depth up to 120 m are
performed from self-elevating mobile jack-up rigs. During operation, the spudcan footings of
the jack-up rigs are subjected to combined vertical, horizontal and moment (V, H, M) loading
as a result of environmental wind, wave and currents acting on the platform. Extensive
experimental and numerical studies have been conducted to investigate the combined VHM
capacity of a variety of footings and on single layer sand and clay. In the field, layered soil
stratigraphies with sand overlying clay are very common. When a spudcan penetrates
through the top sand layer into the underlying clay, a sand plug is trapped underneath the
spudcan and moves together with it. The effect of such soil layering on the corresponding
footing yield surface is not well understood.
In this project, the combined VHM capacity will be investigated for a composite foundation of
spudcan and sand plug penetrated in the underlying clay. The effect of sand layer thickness,
relative density of sand and penetration depth will be systematically examined using finite
element method.
Students familiar with Abaqus are preferred. Please feel free to contact Dr Pan
Hu(pan.hu@uwa.edu.au) for more information.
Hu, Xiaozhi, Professor

Co-supervisors: Jiang, Bin, (Phd)
Experimental verification of an elastic and plastic fracture

design method
Disciplines: Civil, Materials, Mechanical
Prerequisite Skills: Knowledge of materials and material properties, or solid
mechanics
The project covers testing of different metals to determine the structural failure loads
(defined by both cracking and yielding), and verify a design method for elastic and plastic
fracture. 3 students completed a similar project in Oct 2016.
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Co-supervisors: Yuan, Bingyan, (PhD)
Ballistic impact resistant carbon fibre composites with

Kevlar fibre interfacial reinforcement
Disciplines: Materials, Mechanical
Prerequisite Skills: Knowledge of materials and material properties
The project covers composite design, processing and testing to determine the optimum
interfacial reinforcement conditions for ballistic impact resistance. One student just
completed a similar project in October 2016.

Co-supervisors: Yuan, Bingyan, Ms (PhD)
Repair of delamination damage in carbon fibre composites

Disciplines: Materials, Mechanical
Prerequisite Skills: Knowledge of materials and material properties
The project covers composite design, processing and repair methods to determine the
optimum composite conditions for delamination damage repair. This is a new project, but
students completed relevant projects in 2015 and 2016.
Hu, Yuxia, Prof.

Co-supervisors: Geoff Cocks, Mr., Senior Principal; Fred Verheyde, Dr.,
Manager/Principal
Investigation of Perth sand characteristics and ground

improvement using sand overlay
Disciplines: Civil
Perth sands include Tamala sand, Safety bay sand and Bassendean sand. Although sands are
good foundation soils for construction, they may behave differently when fines are present in
the soil. The soil characteristics, such as permeability and compressibility of Perth sand with
different amount of fines need to be investigated for foundation design.
With the population growth of Western Australia, the residential establishment expands to
areas with soft ground for residential buildings and roads. A sand overlay method is normally
used to improve the ground condition before construction. This project is to investigate the
performance of soft ground soils with different sand layer laid on top.
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Hu, Yuxia, Prof.
Co-supervisors: M. Shazzad Hossain, A/Prof.
Offshore foundation design

Disciplines: Civil and Software
Jackup rigs are a popular offshore structure to support offshore platforms up to 150 m in
water depth. The rigs are normally supported by three individual legs with a footing at the
bottom called spudcan. The mobility of the rigs means that it will be installed at a location for
oil/gas exploration and retrieved after the exploration, before it is moved to the next
location.
The common issues are:
(a) spudcan capacity on sand over clay soils - spudcan size effect;
(b) spudcan retrieving process - how to reduce pullout resistance;
(c) sand overlay method to reduce spudcan penetration depth for wind turbine installation.
This project will investigate different issues above. Finite Element analysis will be conducted
to investigate different options.
Hu, Yuxia, Prof.

Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark, Prof; While, Lyndon, Prof
Optimisation of Road Maintenance Scheduling

Disciplines: Civil and Software
Road performance has been monitored after the road construction in the road network
around Perth and WA. For existing road networks, roads are deteriorating with age. Road
maintenance work needs to be scheduled based on the budget and optimum performance of
the overall network. This project is to examine the road performance monitoring data and
the current road deterioration models, with the constraint of annual road maintenance
budget, to optimise the road maintenance scheduling. This project is to combine datamining
with optimisation techniques based on genetic algorithms to determine the most effective
ways to keep a maintenance schedule up to date. The decisions will be guided by a simple
mechanical model of road deterioration along with data about failures and faults appearing.
Huang, David, Professor
Mining plan based wireless network design for open-pit

mines
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Mining
Mine site wireless communications with seamless coverage and Quality of Service guarantees
are a key element to improving operational efficiency and employee safety of contemporary
open pit mines. The topography of a typical pit consists of benches and slopes with mineral-
rich reflective surfaces, and its size and form can change quickly during the lifetime of the
35


mine. This makes the radio propagation conditions of open pit mining very different from
typical commercial wireless communication systems.
Mining is a carefully planned activity. Mine planning determines the extent of the terrain
profile that will be modified and provides estimates of materials to be moved and equipment
to be deployed. From mine planning, it is possible to determine the communication
requirements, e.g. the amount of data traffic (including when and where) required to be
transmitted, and the radio propagation conditions.
Geographic Information System (GIS) has been extensively used in the mining industry for
development and production. Using the GIS and the mining plan, a quasi-deterministic
communication traffic dimensioning can be determined. It is then possible to identify a proper
combination of wireless technologies that are appropriate for the mining site. In this project,
we will investigate how to select the optimal locations of key communication nodes (e.g.
access points and base stations) and the optimal parameters associated with them, through
the simulation and modeling of the radio propagation environment and data traffic, with the
aid of GIS.
This approach includes:
3D radio propagation modeling for typical open pit mine structure such as benches and
slopes.
Radio coverage analysis for different antennas over typical mining pits.
Data traffic modeling for typical devices employed in an open pit mine.
Developing analytical models for the deployment of various wireless networks.
Modeling and analysis of capital and operating expense of various wireless networks..
Huang, David, Professor
Portable wireless communication nodes for open-pit mines

Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Mining
The wireless communication services provided by public telecom operators often cannot
satisfy (or can only partly satisfy) the needs of the mining industry. For example, the
operations of open pit mines require more broadband uplink wireless communications to
support automated mining and remote operations. As a result, mining companies need to set
up and maintain their own private wireless networks.
Quickly deployable portable wireless nodes (e.g. a repeater or a portable base station) are
critical for providing wireless services to the mining industry, as they can be used to quickly
adapt to the change of a pit, extend the radio coverage, and cover black spots.
This project includes:
Algorithm design for iterative detection and channel estimation at the repeater or base
station
A repeater or a portable base station may introduce interference to other base stations. By
employing iterative detection and channel estimation, significant performance improvement
can be achieved by canceling out the interference at the base station or repeater.
Enhanced signal processing at the base station for uplink transmission using turbo
equalization
Compared to conventional systems, it is possible to significantly increase the data rate of
uplink transmission by employing turbo equalization at the receiver of the base station.
Virtual antenna for wireless terminals
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A wireless terminal is often equipped with multiple radios, e.g. Bluetooth and cellular radio. A
mobile repeater with enhanced signal processing capability and enhanced antennas (e.g.
MIMO antenna) can connect to the wireless terminal with Bluetooth, and connect to the
base station with cellular radio.
Since the data rate or the radio coverage of the repeater can be much better than the
wireless terminal, the repeater can be treated as a virtual antenna to the terminal to enhance
its performance.
Huynh, Du, Dr
Assessment of Fundamental movements using the Kinect
Sensor
Disciplines: Computer, Mechatronics, Software
Prerequisite skills: Matlab programming, C/C++ programming (desirable).
The aim of this project is to obtain objective estimates of 7 to 11 year old childrens
movement proficiency using the Microsoft Kinect Sensor. We propose to develop a software
driven tool that can interpret movements from videos captured by the Kinect Sensor while
children perform four fundamental movements. The innovation behind the Kinect hinges on
advances in skeletal tracking. In computer generated skeletal tracking, a human body is
denoted by a number of joints representing body parts, each of which is further characterised
by its 3D coordinates. The Kinect Sensor captures the positions of 20 body joints every 30
seconds in three-dimensional space, providing an accurate representation of the major body
segments. The Kinect Sensors skeletal tracking ability is designed to work for every person
on the planet, in every household, without any calibration. We have already developed
software capable of capturing Kinect Sensor data to count the range and frequency of
different movements (for example, jumping, throwing and sidesteps) while children play
movement-based video games. However, the current software is unable to process the more
complex task of determining the quality of childrens movements. Taking on this project, the
student is expected to apply machine learning and computer vision techniques with the
software development phase of the research. The results of this project will contribute
towards a validated objective measurement tool for determining childrens movement
proficiency using off-the-shelf hardware and tailored software.
Huynh, Du, Dr
Multiple pedestrian tracking
Disciplines: Computer, Mechatronics, Software
Prerequisite skills: Matlab programming or C/C++ programming. Some basic
knowledge in computer vision and video processing would be desirable.
Multiple pedestrian tracking is an important computer vision task and has many practical
applications such as video surveillance and crowd control. Two main challenges in multiple
pedestrian tracking are: abrupt change of appearance of the pedestrians and significant
occlusion (especially in crowded scenes). The aim of this this project is to do an in-depth
37


review on the state-of-art techniques on multiple pedestrian tracking and select two or more
techniques for evaluation.
Iu, Herbert Ho-Ching, Professor
Development of memristor based chaotic circuits

In this project, a memristor based chaotic circuit will be developed. A flux-controlled
memristor emulator with floating terminals by making use of four current conveyors has
been proposed. By using this memristor emulator, a high order memristor based chaotic
circuit can be theoretically constructed and mathematically analyzed. This new memristor
based chaotic circuit will provide novel nonlinear behaviors.
Ivey, Greg, Prof

Co-supervisors: Rayson, Matt, Dr
Detection of nonlinear internal waves from ocean

measurements
Disciplines: Civil, Computer, Environmental, Mechanical, Software & Ocean
Systems.
Dynamic and large deformation problems are very common in offshore engineering, such as
the penetration of anchors into seabed, damage of pipelines due to dropped objects, pile
driving etc. This project will carry out numerical modelling to investigate the mechanism of
these challenging problems. This project provides opportunity of learning the commercial
software ABAQUS and potential publishing the research work outcome.
Ivey, Greg, Professor

Co-supervisors: Dr. Alexis Espinosa, A/Prof. Marco Ghisalberti
Predictive capabilities for particle capture in aquatic systems

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical, Ocean Systems and Environmental
The process of particle capture governs the health & productivity of some of the most
biodiverse and valuable ecosystems on the planet (such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs).
Particle capture governs the rates of feeding by suspension feeders (such as coral), the
pollination of seagrasses and turbidity reduction by wetland vegetation. Despite its critical
importance for aquatic ecosystems, the efficiency of particle capture remains poorly
understood.
This project aims to build our capacity to predict rates of particle capture in aquatic
ecosystems, and therefore the resilience of these ecosystems to changes in suspended
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particle concentrations (in, e.g, dredging plumes). The project is multi-faceted and will use
state-of-the-art numerical tools and experimental facilities to better understand the fluid
mechanics of this process. Students will be able to determine the aspect of the project that
most interests them, and focus on that aspect. This project will help students develop key
experimental and modelling skills that will be applicable to industrial and research projects
related to fluid dynamics.
Johns, Michael Professor

Co-supervisors: May, Eric, Prof
Carbon Sequestration
Western Australia has several major offshore gas assets containing significant quantities of
carbon dioxide. Scenarios for dealing with this CO2 must be developed before these gas fields
can be developed. One scenario involves the re-injection of carbon dioxide produced from
one reservoir into the extremities of a different natural reservoir for the purpose of both
CO2 disposal and enhanced gas recovery. However, such a strategy is only viable if the
probability of breakthrough by the re-injected CO2 to the producing wells is small. Simulating
reliably this novel reservoir production scenario requires an improvement in our fundamental
understanding of the hydrodynamic behaviour of supercritical CO2 in heterogeneous gas and
water-saturated rock. Research projects are available measuring this behaviour for its
inclusion into relevant field simulations.
Joldes, Grand, Dr
Evaluation of weakened weak form (W2) methods
Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical
Prerequisite skills: Matlab programming, solid mechanics
An evaluation of the performance of weakened weak form (W2) methods in solving large
deformations elasticity problems. Requires implementation of the methods in Matlab (2D)
and performance evaluation.
Joldes, Grand, Dr
Evaluation of a nodal integration scheme

Prerequisite skills: Matlab programming, solid mechanics
Nodal integration has advantages in terms of computation efficiency compared to other
integration schemes for meshless methods. This project requires the evaluation of an
39


accelerated, convergent, and stable nodal integration in Galerkin meshfree methods for linear
and nonlinear mechanics.
Requires implementation of the methods in Matlab (2D) and performance evaluation.
Karnowski, Karol, Research Fellow

Co-supervisors: Li, Qingyun, PhD Student
OBEL: Optical engineering of novel components for

polarization sensitive OCT a novel promising tool for
cancer optical diagnosis
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical
We developed advanced prototype of polarization sensitive imaging system providing
additional contrast, promising for instance in cancer diagnosis. The aim of this project is to
improve existing system by providing novel optical solutions and/or reducing current system
size bringing this technique towards handheld, clinical applications. Come and talk to us about
this project.
Karrech, Ali, Assoc/Prof
Fault Reactivation in Resource Engineering Geo-Structures

Disciplines: Civil, Mining and Mechanical
The purpose of this project is to investigate fractures reactivation due to fluids injection at
different levels of temperature and pressure and identify the impact of such operations on
the performance of fractured reservoirs/deposits. This research work will use advanced
coupled multi-physics for reservoir modelling to optimise production from naturally fractured
media. It will also include advanced continuum damage mechanics approaches to describe the
initiation, evolution and coalescence of fractures within geological materials. Therefore, a high
resolution is needed, which takes into account the intrinsic length and time scales of the
involved processes. We intend to solve this problem using High Performance Computing.
The solution method relies on massively parallel numerical models based on the finite
element method. The milestones of this project are (1) conduct a multi-scaling approach to
investigate the degradation of geo-materials at the grain, rock-mass, and deposit levels. (2)
investigate the nucleation, propagation and coalescence of damage zones. (3) Model the
problem at hand using the Finite Element Method. (4) Apply the proposed framework to
practical engineering problems.
Karrech, Ali, Assoc/Prof
The future of In-Situ Leaching in Australia
40


Disciplines: Mining, Chemical & Process
Decreasing grades of mineral deposits have resulted in tremendously increasing volumes of
fragmented, mined and processed rock masses to meet the global demand on precious
metals. Immense surface and underground mining projects have been made possible because
of modern highly sophisticated mining and processing machinery. The abundance of low-cost
energy and water contributed significantly to the success of conventional surface and
underground mining. However, maintaining the current level of energy and water costs and
availabilities is questionable. The fluctuation of commodity prices is exerting additional
pressures on conventional mining approaches.
In-Situ Leaching (ISL) is receiving renewed attention as an appealing alternative that requires
lower investments and consumes less energy compared to conventional mining technologies
(Figure 1). ISL is a promising technology that currently delivers 45% of the global supply in
uranium with recoveries that can reach up to 90%. In Australia, two ISL-based commercial
projects Beverly and Honeymoon are currently operational; they contribute 9% of its total
uranium production. The purpose of this project is to investigate the applicability of ISL for
precious metals.
Karrech, Ali, Associate Professor
Multi-disciplinary Design of Open Pits

Disciplines: Civil, Mining, Mechanical
The proposed research work will focus on the development of a simulation model that
combines the strengths of iSight, Whittle and Abaqus in solving multi-disciplinary engineering
problems. iSight will be used as an automatic integration platform to run a Collaborative
Multi-disciplinary Design (CMD). The CMD will employ finite element models through
Abaqus and scheduling/planning models through Whittle. In particular, the Abaqus finite
element models will include advanced constitutive laws to predict the geotechnical behaviour
of rock masses. Whittle will deliver optimum pits that maximise profit and respect
production constraints (mill capacity, fleet capacity etc.). Through iSight, the CMD will
represent a novel pit optimisation procedure under geomechanical stability constraints.
Karrech, Ali, Associate Professor
Mechanical Instability of Pipelines under Large Deformation

Pipelines are used by the oil and gas industry to transfer fluids under variable loading
conditions. They often undergo large and/or permanent deformations, which can affect their
performance. The purpose of this project is to use advanced finite element and continuum
damage mechanics techniques to describe the bifurcation of these structures.
41


Keating, Adrian, Professor
Using simple LEDs as precision instruments

Prerequisite skills: EE students or Mech stduents with an interest in building
instruments. Must be willing to say "yes" to new and challenging tasks.
In 2015/6, the System Health lab broke new ground in establishing that cheap LEDs could be
used as distance sensors, potentially overcoming some of the usage limitations that lasers
have due to safety concerns. blood pressure monitoring and a simple load cell. Opportunties
exist to create novel instruments and help overcome barriers to make this technology more
widely available. For example, issues of overcoming surface curvature, tilt and temperature
compensation still require investigation.

Co-supervisors: Parish, Gia, Professor
Materials made from thin air - porous film properties

Prerequisite Skills: Various skills usefull including design, modeling and electrical
skills. ability to put an instrument together to take measurements
This project investigates how the addition of nanometer sized pores in a materal can alter the
mechanical, electrical, thermal and optical properties. Such "meta"-materials are useful in a
range of applications, from sensors, to cloaking devices. This project offers opportunities for
electrical, mechanical and/or material students to learn more about this technology and it's
applications. This material is made using extremely dangerous chemicals - The continuation
of an ultra-safe fabrication system is required to allow students the ability to make and design
these nanoporous films themselves. Thermal characteristics and noise in this micron thick
films also need to be characterised. Laser induced acoustic output from these films was
measured by students in 2016 which could be continued.

Energy harvesting for wireless sensor networks
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Mechatronic
Prerequisite skills: Much of the work leverages electrical engineering or design
skills
This project has significant industrial interest. Students will review and evaluate an energy
harvesting circuit and refining the design based on best practice from literature reviews. All
students will assist in the development of the basic energy harvesting circuit. Subsequently,
42


each student will be assigned a different aspect of the energy harvesting problem including: 1)
alternative sources (thermal, vibration, electromagnetics) 2) storage capacity (evaluation and
improvement) 3) low energy wireless transmission and protocols 4) system integration with
data logging and data evaluation, 6) operation if a network of wirelss energy harvestors, 6)
system integration
Kimiaei Mehrdad, A/Prof

Co-supervisors: Kejriwal, Vikas (Industry)
Applicability of Charpy V-Notch test in subsea pipeline

engineering
Disciplines: Civil & Mechanical
Offshore platforms are under cumulative damages due to repeated application of wave loads
known as fatigue induced damages. Usually fatigue design is one of the most important issues
for assessment and life extension of existing or new offshore platforms subjected to wave
loads. Spectral fatigue analysis is a widely accepted method for fatigue design of offshore
facilities. It requires determination of hot spot stress Transfer Functions (TFs) which can be
obtained via time domain or frequency domain calculations. Time domain calculations are
more accurate, however they are also time consuming. Frequency domain calculations are
much faster but they are subjected to some major simplifying assumptions. In both
approaches, Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs) for welded areas should be evaluated
precisely.
Main aim of the project is to study the possible improvements (either on TF or on SCF
calculations) for a robust and less conservative fatigue design. This project is a numerical
study and the students will learn how to work with different modules of a very popular
offshore structural engineering package (Sesam).
This project is more suitable for final year students with civil or mechanical engineering
background who are interested in advanced structural engineering (with main focus in
offshore and marine engineering).
Kimiaei Mehrdad, A/Professor

Dynamic response and fatigue design of steel catenary risers
Steel Catenary Risers (SCRs) are still one of the most popular and cost effective types of
risers for development of offshore fields in shallow to medium water depths. Fatigue design
of SCRs is strongly affected by wave loading on the system and the riser soil interaction in
the touch down zone (TDZ).
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Main objective of this numerical research is to get a better understanding of dynamic
response and fatigue design of SCRs under dynamic wave loads. This study will be in
continuation of the previous studies carried out at COFS on fatigue design of SCRs. Using
Orcaflex software, effects of main input parameters (vessel motions, environmental loading,
soil behaviour, etc) on fatigue performance of the system under randomly generated dynamic
wave loads will be investigated.
This project is more suitable for final year, preferably MPE, students with civil or mechanical
engineering background who are interested in advanced structural engineering (with main
focus on offshore and subsea engineering).
Kimiaei Mehrdad, A/Professor

Co-supervisors: Tran, Joe (Industry)
Applicability of Charpy V-Notch test in subsea pipeline

engineering
Disciplines: Civil & Mechanical
Fracture mechanic is part of advanced structural engineering for integrity assessment of
subsea pipelines. Charpy V-Notch (CVN) test has been used for a long time as a screening
tool for fracture resistance of material in oil and gas industry. The test offers economic
advantages of being inexpensive in both time and cost. Unfortunately, the reliability of CVN
test results are still questionable, especially in the case of multi-materials domain and in the
case that applied loading is static, such as in the case of CRA pipe girth weld. This study
through literature review and numerical works will provide:
A review of standard CVN test
Comparison between standard CVN test and other fracture toughness test, e.g. Single Edge
Notch Bending (SENB), Single Edge Notch Tensile (SENT), Compact Tension (CT):
Literature review
From analytical point of view
From numerical modelling
From experimental point of view
Recommendation on the applicability of CVN test
The motivation of this topic is from actual experience. There were many cases that CVN test
result failed to comply with the requirements in the design standard. In some cases, re-test,
using CVN specimen, was then carried out and the re-test result passed the requirement. In
some other cases, the re-test results still failed. As a result, standard fracture toughness tests
44


were carried out and the good results were obtained. It is, therefore, questionable for the
reliability of CVN test.
This project is more suitable for final year students with civil or mechanical engineering
background who are interested in advanced numerical modelling.
Leggoe, Jeremy, Professor
Finite Element Modelling of Bolted Flanged Connections in

LNG Processing
Disciplines: Mechanical, Materials
Prerequisite skills: Strong Performance in Solid Mechanics, Materials &
Manufacturing, Numerical Methods& Modelling; if not already taken, students
should plan to enrol in Degradation of materials and Finite Element Modelling
during the project.
The integrity of sealing in bolted flanged connections (BFC) can be compromised when large
temperature differentials exist across the connection, as can be the case when cold liquid
LNG partially fills a pipeline that is otherwise exposed to ambient conditions.This is a
significant practical issue in LNG plants, as a loss of sealing integrity implies a loss of
containment of hydrocarbons.
Finite element analysis is being used to investigate BFC integrity under a range of conditions.
Given the broad range of temperatures, even characterising the material properties for the
flanges, bolts and gaskets accurately for use in FE models is challenging. Students in this
project will focus on various aspects of modelling the connection:
- The seating of the gasket, and the response of the gasket material when exposed to
different temperatures (noting that gaskets are often composites themselves)
- Modelling the individual bolts, and the effects of the sequence of bolt tightening
- Understanding the effect of pipe layout (and thus boundary conditions) on the connection
- Understanding the effects of flange dimensions on BFC performance
This project is aligned with an ongoing investigation being undertaken by a PhD candidate.
The PhD candidate will join weekly group meetings, and his previous work in this area will
provide background for the project.
Leggoe, Jeremy, Professor

Co-supervisors: Aman, Zachary, Professor
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Computational Fluid Dynamics Modelling of Jet break up for
Oil & Gas Well Blow Outs and other jet spraying
applications in the Oil & Gas industry
Prerequisite skills: Strong performance in Fluid Mechanics and Numerical
Methods and Modelling; If not already completed, students should plan to enrol in
CHPR 4407 Transport Phenomena during the project.
In the event of a well blowout, the nature of the turbulent flow field surrounding the
resulting jet is a significant factor but poorly understood factor in determining the ultimate
dispersion of the released material in the environment.
This project will develop and interpret CFD models of jet releases into a quiescent
environment to explore the relation between jet dynamics and the distribution of bubble
sizes produced by the process. Particular emphasis will be directed towards:
- Characterising multi-scale processes of bubble formation

- Characterising the effect of the presence of multiple immiscible phases on turbulence
- Characterising the relationship between turbulence and bubble distribution
Students should expect to work with the software ANSYS/Fluent - previous experience with
the software is not essential, but would be a significant advantage.
The students undertaking this project will join a group including PhD student, and significant
progress was made by the students working on the project in 2016. The PhD student will be
presenting a paper on the project at an international conference in late 2016, and that work
will provide background for the project.
Previous completion of ENSC3003 (and ideally strong performance I the unit) would be an
advantage for this project.
Lehane, Barry, Professor

Co-supervisors: Doherty, James, Dr
Research for Forresfield airport link

Disciplines: Civil
A $2 billion infrastructure project (http://www.forrestfieldairportlink.wa.gov.au/) in the
vicinity of the airport is presently at the design stage with construction due to commence
soon. This project examine a few critical elements of the project such as (i) tunnelling under
the airport runway, (ii) conducting real time monitoring of tunnel boring machine
instrumentation to assist decision making, (iii) friction generated on large scale barrette and
(iv) soil structure interaction modelling.
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Co-supervisors: Doherty, James, Dr
Advancing laterally loaded pile analysis and design

Disciplines: Civil
Better analysis and design techniques for laterally loaded piles are now being sought with the
increasing popularity of wind turbines and supports for solar panels. This project will involve
assessments of the predictive capability of some newly proposed methods using traditional
software as well as finite element analyses.

Co-supervisors: White, David, Prof; Doherty, James, Dr
An optical method for strain measurement in triaxial tests

Disciplines: Civil
This project will explore the use of the PIV technique to measure strains locally on triaxial
samples - and hence allow cost-effective and efficient measurement of the stiffness
characteristics of soil.
Lei, Wen, Professor

Semiconductor Nanosensors
Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Materials
Semiconductor nanostructures are semiconductor materials of nanoscale dimensions,
including zero-, one-, and two-dimensional nanostructures. They have many unique
properties such as large surface area-to-volume ratio, very high aspect ratio, and strong
quantum confinement including both carrier and photon. This leads to many unique and
desirable electronic and optical properties for semiconductor nanostructures and thus
various novel devices with superior performance over existing devices to revolutionise our
technological world. These nanodevices include transistors, light emitters, solar cells, and
sensors that are used in our daily life such as mobile phones, large-area displays, solar panels,
and telecommunication systems. Apart from their super performance, these nanodevices
present other advantages such as smaller size, lower cost, and higher energy efficiency,
compared to traditional semiconductor devices with larger dimensions.
In this project, we will focus on the development of one- and/or two-dimensional

semiconductor nanosensors with numerous potential applications ranging from light sensing,
to environment sensing, and to telecommunication. This project can be divided into two main
47


modules in which students choose both or either modules or any aspects of each module
depending on interests of the students and duration of the program:
(1) Synthesis of high quality semiconductor nanostructures using CVD and/or MBE material
growth tools, and understand, through various structural, electrical, and optical
characterisation techniques, how to (i) improve the material quality, (ii) control the
composition and material, and (iii) to engineer the bandstructure of nanostructures;
(2) Fabrication and characterisation of semiconductor nanosensors which involve (i) the
design of the sensor structures, (ii) the use of state-of-the-art device fabrication facilities to
make nanosensor devices, and (iii) characterising the performance and properties of the
nanosensors to understand the underlying physics of the devices.
Through this project, the students will develop practical expertise and experience needed by
semiconductor and other industries, including:
(1) Material synthesis/growth using CVD and/or MBE material growth facilities;
(2) Design and modeling of semiconductor devices;
(3) Material processing and device fabrication technologies within a cleanroom environment;
(4) Nanoscale material and device characterisation;
Required background:
Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Material Science, Physics, and Chemistry
Leong, Yee-Kwong, Professor
Laminar and Turbulent flow Pipe-loop data of Pseudoplatic

polymer solutions
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Environmental, Mechanical, Oil & Gas,
Petroleum
Students will prepare psuedoplastic polymer solutions and characterize its flow behaviour in
pipeflow loop and cone-and-plate viscometer. Fanning friction factor and Reynold number
data in both lamina and turbulent flow regime will be obtained. The suitability and accuracy
of the Dodge and Metzner friction factor-Reynold number correlation for pseudoplastic fluids
in the turbulent flow regime will be evaluated.
Friction factor correlations for yield stress (Clay) suspensions

in the turbulent flow regime
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Environmental, Mechanical, Oil & Gas
The pressure drop and velocity data of low yield stress clay suspensions will be converted to
fanning friction factor and Reynold number data. However the calculation of the Reynold
48


number required the use of a viscosity which for a yield stress fluid changes with shear rate.
This study will evaluate the most appropriate viscosity to use in the Reynold number
calculation and then determine most appropriate friction factor correlation that fits the
friction loss-Reynold number data
Population balance modelling of fragmentation process of

flocs
Discrete data of particle size distribution of alumina flocs monitored as a function of
fragmentation time are already available and will be converted continuous particle size density
function or PSDF data. Population balance (PBE) model will be employed to model the
fragmentation process using a starting PSDF data. The starting PSDF data to be used can start
at any fragmentation time in the modelling. Starting PSDF data at various fragmentation time
will be used to PBE model the fragmentation process using software written in Mathematica
developed by the University of Melbourne. The simulated size distribution function result will
be compared with experimental data. The accuracy of PBE model using data a various starting
PSDF data used in predicting real experimental behaviour will also be evaluated and
compared.

Co-supervisors: Fawell Phillip, Dr (CSIRO), Constine, Allan, Dr (CSIRO)
Assessing aggregate size density relationships of dilute clay

suspensions after polymer-bridging flocculation
The project involved the monitoring of aggregate or floc size and density as a function of time
in a flow cell or vessel after the addition of a polymeric flocculant. The parameters to be
evaluated are polymer flocculant charge density and molecular weight. Some of the floc
characterization experiments will (most likely) be conducted at CSIRO Waterford. The
knowledge generated from this study will be very useful in many areas of suspension
processing such as the dewatering of waste tailings, water treatment and clarification of
sugar cane juice.
Li, Jianxin Dr
Realistic Damage and Cost Model in Car Crash
49



Prerequisite skills: like to learn Bayesian network model, software development,
should be familiar with at least one programming language
As reported by the government of Western Australia Road Safety Commission, 161 people
died on WA roads in 2015, which consists of 87 in regional areas and 74 in the metropolitan
area. More males died in regional WA than females, which is 63:24. Similarly, male to female
is 55:19 in metropolitan. And the most people killed in crashes were aged between 25 and
29. The report also pointed out that in 2015, 60% of fatalities were a result of crashes with
recorded driver behavioural factors.
In this project, students will be guided to develop a damage and cost model for car crash.
Based on the situations a car crash occurred in, the system with the developed model will
predict the level of the crash, the damage of the crash and the finance cost of the crash. We
also develop the system to track drivers' behaviors. With the support of the system, we will
directly tell the drivers how much amount of money they lost due to their mistakenly-
operated behaviors when they drive.
Li, Jianxin Dr
Buying Trend Analytics in E-Commence
Disciplines: Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Software
Prerequisite Skills: Be familiar to at least one programming language,
Algorithms and index techniques in database, Data mining knowledge
Nowadays, people's purchasing behavior has been changed a lot with the development of e-
commence, e.g., Amazon, Ebay, and Taobao. The customers may get more benefit from
online purchase, e.g., cheaper price, more convenient to order, and share with others. The
retailers also get benefit from e-commence, e.g., free store rental, a small number of staff, and
attracting wide customers.
In this project, students will be guided to investigate the co-purchasing behaviors of

customers and the buying trend of products. We would like to answer how a buyer's
behavior influence the other buyers in their decision.
Li, Jianxin, Dr
Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark, Professor
DST-Project: Driver Safety Tracking Development

Prerequisite skills: Programming Skills, e.g., PHP, Javascript, Python (or Java),
APP development skills.
50


As reported by the government of Western Australia Road Safety Commission, 161 people
died on WA roads in 2015, which consists of 87 in regional areas and 74 in the metropolitan
area. More males died in regional WA than females, which is 63:24. Similarly, male to female
is 55:19 in metropolitan. And the most people killed in crashes were aged between 25 and
29. The report also pointed out that in 2015, 60% of fatalities were a result of crashes with
recorded driver behavioural factors.
In this project, we will develop a mobile phone APP to help customers tracking their driving
behaviors when they are driving on the roads, particularly for the parents monitoring the
young drivers. The APP will take as input multiple types of information about drivers, e.g.,
where they are driving, the traffic conditions, driving behaviors, stress/fatigue, etc.. By
analyzing the information together, the APP will show a driving safety report to the driver at
the end of each tour. In addition, the APP also makes report weekly or monthly in order to
track and explain the drivers' driving safety well. At the end, a practical and effective driving
risk assessment model is a must to be investigated.
Li, Kevin, Dr
Co-supervisors: Xiao, James Dr; Graham, Brendan Dr; May, Eric, Prof
Advanced Gas Separations

Carbon dioxide capture, whether from natural gas streams or from flue gases, is an
important and increasing area of research with significant implications for our economy and
environment. N2 capture from natural gas is increasingly important in the development of
LNG projects where this component is energetically parasitic. These projects will look at the
use of novel materials for improved capture efficiency that are either solid adsorbents,
including carbons, zeolites and calixarenes, or liquid solvents, such as transition metal
complexes. In addition, the production of high value zeolites from waste materials such as fly
ash will be investigated. Students working on these projects will help develop and
characterise the separation performance of new materials synthesized in our laboratory over
a wide range of temperature, pressure and mixture compositions, and/or use the results of
such experiments to develop numerical models of advanced industrial separation processes.
Liu, Jishan, Professor

Extraction of Unconventional Gases: Coal Seam Gas
Disciplines: Oil & Gas, Petroleum
Prerequisite Skills: already taken OGEG5803 Reservoir Engineering or will take
it in S1 2017
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Despite its increasing role in the world energy market, coal seam gas extraction remains
poorly understood with many observations unexplained. The purpose of this project is to
investigate what factors control the efficiency of gas extraction. This goal will be achieved
through (1) Literature Review; (2) Formulation of Gas Flow in Coal; and (3) Use a
commercial tool (COMSOL) to investigate the major factors and to compare the results with
observations.
Liu, Jishan, Professor
Extraction of Unconventional Gases: Shale Gas

Disciplines: Oil & Gas, Petroleum
Prerequisite Skills: already taken OGEG5803 Reservoir Engineering or will take
it in S1 2017
Despite its increasing role in the world energy market, shale gas extraction remains poorly
understood with many observations unexplained. The purpose of this project is to
investigate what factors control the efficiency of gas extraction. This goal will be achieved
through (1) Literature Review; (2) Formulation of Gas Flow in Shale; and (3) Use a
commercial tool (COMSOL) to investigate the major factors and to compare the results with
observations.
Liu, Yinong, Professor

Co-supervisors: Yang, Hong, Professor
Subsea oil and gas pipeline corrosion

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Materials, Mechanical, Oil & Gas
Prerequisite skills: completion of unit MECH4428 Degradation of Materials
This is a project in collaboration with Woodside. It involves testing for corrosion prevention
strategies and monitoring for subsea pipelines using real life pipe samples. The project will
involve analysis of corrosion coupons and test fluids and testing of corrosion monitoring
probes, as well as handling life-size subsea pipeline test pieces
Ma, Guowei, Prof

Co-supervisors: Aslani, Farhad, Dr; Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr
Development of 3D Printing Concrete

Disciplines: Civil
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This project aims to develop fast curing cement paste material for 3D print of structures.
Different from traditionally made concrete, the 3D printing concrete does not require
formwork or mould, however, all binding particles must be able to be spayed through a small
print head or nozzle, and hydrators and adhesives must be added to promote hydration and
help the object maintain its shape. In this project, the uniaxial strength and flow characteristic
of cement paste specimens with different mixtures at various conditions will be tested. The
developed material is expected to be used for 3D printing of structural models. Student may
be required to visit Beijing University of Technology to carry out the test.
Ma, Guowei, Prof

Co-supervisors: Elchalakani, Mohamed Dr; Aslani, Farhad, Dr
Mechanical property of basalt fiber composite bar for

reinforcing concrete
Disciplines: Civil
This project aims to test the mechanical property of basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP)
bar for reinforcement of concrete structures, replacing traditional steel reinforcement. The
BFRP bar will be with high strength, corrosion free, light, and flexible for different structure
design. The tensile capacity, compression and bending capacities of the BFRP bar will be
tested.
Male, Sally, Dr
Development and trial of virtual work integrated learning

modules
Disciplines: Civil, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical
Students of accredited engineering programs in Australia must be exposed to engineering
practice. This project will contribute to an overarching project on virtual work integrated
learning (WIL) for engineering students. In the overarching project, learning modules are
being developed to expose students to practice without real work placements. Previous final
year students have investigated learning outcomes and learning activities for virtual WIL in
engineering. The new final year students will develop and test virtual WIL modules, building
on the work of the previous students. Students will collaborate with the Virtual WIL Project
Team which includes researchers from UWA, CingleVue International, Curtin University,
The University of Queensland, Murdoch University, Engineers Australia, and the Australian
Council of Engineering Deans.
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May, Eric, Professor
Co-supervisors: Graham, Brendan Dr; Stanwix, Paul, Dr; Hughes, Thomas Dr;
Al Ghafri, Saif Dr
Natural Gas & LNG Properties

Unplanned shutdowns of LNG plants caused by hydrocarbon solids blocking cryogenic heat
exchangers are a major, ongoing problem for the industry. Current methods of avoiding them
are costly and energy intensive. In addition, LNG production systems are over-engineered
because the predictions of process simulators are unreliable, and this has significant
implications for the cost of modern plants, especially FLNG. More generally, the natural gas
industry needs new physical property data at high-pressures and low temperatures to
develop more efficient processes capable of handling more problematic gas reserves. These
projects aim to produce the required new data and develop new predictive models relevant
to natural gas processing and LNG production to help avoid unexpected shutdowns, improve
plant efficiency, and increase safety.
McCormick, Paul, Professor
Solar photovoltaic power systems

Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical, Software
Prerequisite skills: Good anyalytical skills, computing, some projects are
experimental
Recent technical and economic advances have made solar energy a practical alternative for
electric power generation for a wide range of applications. While photovoltaic PV cells have
demonstrated long operating lifetimes with minimal degradation the development of PV
systems incorporating battery storage is much more recent. Surprisingly, it is not well known
that significant fluctuations in PV current occur in partly cloudy conditions. Major variations in
load demand can also occur. Little is known of the effect of such fluctuations on battery
lifetime. This project will focus on various aspects of short and long term battery and system
performance as influenced by cyclic current inputs and load outputs.
McDonald, Chris, Dr
Visualising firewall execution using iptables and NFTables
Disciplines: Computer, Electrical Engineering, Software
Prerequisite skills: Enthusiasm for systems programming, preferably in C or C++
Computer network firewalls monitor and filter network traffic basedon a combination of
characteristics, such as the physical attributes of the traffic, the protocols being employed,
and the traffic's relationship with other traffic observed over a window of time.
Contemporary operating-systems and devices implement their firewall software in their
54


kernels, and define and monitor their firewalls' operations through either command-line or
graphical interfaces that interact with data-structures and functions provided by the kernel.
Some contemporary firewall suites have names netfilter, iptables, NFTables, and PF.
This project seeks to develop software to visually demonstrate the operation of a network
firewall, by executing the same code that the kernel, itself, executes and annotating the
actions taken. The software will support firewall specification rules written for at least two of
the contemporary systems, and receive its network traffic from either real or synthetically
generated network packet traces. Several firewall devices will be simulated in a large
environment, where each firewall maintains and executes its own ruleset and traffic and
application mix.
McDonald, Chris, Dr
Operating System visualisation using DTrace and SystemTap
Prerequisite skills: Enthusiasm for systems programming, preferably in C or C++
Computing textbooks employ many static 'before-and-after' figures, hoping to convey the
interactions between programs and operating systems, and the transitions of internal
operating system structures. Historically, Computer Science educators have hoped to
breathe life into these textbook figures with purpose-developed visualization tools but,
unfortunately, these have often required specific and unsustainable programming, compiling,
and execution practices. Moreover, many of these tools have a constrained scope, or only
support prebuilt demonstrations. These well-intentioned approaches often increase students'
cognitive load, leaving them confused as to what is to be learned.
The DTrace framework (under Apple's OS-X) and SystemTap (under Linux) both enable a
process's execution and its interactions with the operating system kernel to be traced and
annotated at a fine grain. They both provide well recognized benefits for systems
administration, but also a great opportunity for Computer Science Education. This project
will review and extend the recent project of Jurek Malarecki, to develop visualisations to
trace the execution of programs, provided by an educator, being developed and debugged
by students, or even standard system and application programs.
McDonald, Chris, Dr
Co-supervisors: Sun, Chao, Dr (Business School)
Modelling Connected Autonomous Vehicles and

Infrastructure
Prerequisite skills: Enthusiasm for systems programming, preferably in C or
C++
55


Within 5 years years, the average consumer will be able to purchase an autonomous vehicle
and drive it on our public roads, resulting in a dramatic change to traffic patterns and travel
times. Beyond the benefits of autonomous vehicles are connected vehicles - vehicles
that communicate their state, intention, and traffic conditions to other vehicles and to road-
side infrastructure. The potential benefits of vehicle-to-infrastructure communication,
particularly, are significant, including controlling vehicles through intersections - no more
traffic lights - and using current and predicted road and congestion conditions to adjust the
speed of vehicles.
Connected vehicle simulation needs to accurately simulate both the driving and route
planning of vehicles, and the wireless communication in a very crowded environment.
Current approaches separate these tasks by employing two different simulators,
communicating through a common data format, but accuracy is lost when wishing to model
'real-time' wireless-based attacks against vehicles and infrastructure.
This project will first investigate the landscape of open-source vehicle simulators and then
employ a chosen, or modified, simulator to model and investigate attacks against connect
vehicles and infrastructure.
Miller, Karol, Professor

Biomechanics: Stress and strain in abdominal aortic
aneurysm
Disciplines: Civil, Computer, Mechanical
Prerequisite skills: Students in mathematical modelling and computer simulation
of mechanical, biomechanical and electromechanical systems (especially in
biomechanics and robotics) are welcome.
This is a finite element simulation project using Abaqus and our one code BioPARR
http://bioparr.mech.uwa.edu.au/ . This project is in collaboration with Harvards Martinos
Center for Biomedical Imaging https://www.martinos.org/ and Fraunhofer MEVIS institute in
Germany http://www.mevis.fraunhofer.de/ . Project will be conducted within Intelligent
Systems for Medicine Laboratory http://school.mech.uwa.edu.au/ISML/index.php/Main_Page
The best students will have an opportunity to travel to collaborating labs.
World's best finite element mesh of the brain

Prerequisite Skills: students in mathematical modelling and computer simulation
56


Project in collaboration with Harvard Medical School. Surgical Planning Laboratory
http://spl.harvard.edu, Harvard) The best students will have an opportunity to travel to
Harvard
Computer simulation of brain deformations for epilepsy

treatment
Computer simulation of brain deformations for epilepsy treatment (with Computational
Radiology Laboratory http://crl.med.harvard.edu/, Harvard), and tumour resection (with
Surgical Planning Laboratory http://spl.harvard.edu, Harvard).
Project in collaboration with Harvard Medical School.The best students will have an
opportunity to travel to Harvard
Robotics: A robot to pick up tennis balls (design and build)

Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical
Design and build a robot to pick up tennis balls.
Milne, George, Professor

Co-supervisors: Kelso, Joel, Dr.
The AUSTRALIS Bushfire Prediction System

Disciplines: Software
Prerequisite skills: Java programming, server side web development, touch
interface development.
The AUSTRALIS bushfire system has been developed by Prof Milne and Dr. Kelso, School of
Computer Science and Software Engineering, UWA over the past 10 years. It is now used by
the Department of Fire and Emergency Services to predict the future location of all bushfires
in Western Australia.
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The project will investigate possible future enhancements of the AUSTRALIS System by
constructing prototypes to achieve the following:
Develop a software framework for running an ensemble of AUSTRALIS simulations and
producing a probabilistic risk map.
Develop a network-accessible simulation server that takes a (simplified) simulation
specification from a web request, logs request, runs simulation, saves result, and renders a
map of results which is then available to the requester.
Develop a simple touch-screen interface for specifying a bushfire simulation, with time,
duration, with ignition location/lines, weather series.
Add a module to AUSTRALIS to produce isochrone output data (location of fire at given
time points) from raw cell fire arrival time data. Solution should not depend on any
proprietary library (e.g. ArcGIS) or large monolithic software framework.
The project team will work closely with Prof Milne and Dr Kelso to achieve the above aims,
with the goal of demonstrating the functionality of the additional features using data from one
of the recent WA bushfires.
Mohr, Henning, Dr.

Co-supervisors: Draper, Scott, Dr.
Linking in-situ erosion testing with model scale experiments

of subsea structures
The net movement of sediment (i.e. scour) around subsea structures can be difficult to
predict in practice, but must be estimated accurately to ensure offshore structures are
designed reliably. Much of the difficulty lies in predicting the erosion properties of sediment,
and then using these properties to estimate scour. In this project, model scale experiments of
subsea structures will be undertaken together with in-situ erosion testing to characterise the
erosion properties of sediment; the relationship between the scour rate and the erosion rate
will then investigated. The erosion testing will be carried out using a novel flume developed at
UWA to measure erosion properties, whilst the model scale scour experiments will be
performed in a recirculating flume at UWA.
This project forms part of the Woodside funded RiverLab project. More information is
available here: http://www.oceans.uwa.edu.au/collaborations/riverlab
Mohr, Henning, Dr.

Co-supervisors: Draper, Scott, Dr.
Linking in-situ erosion testing with model scale experiments

of subsea structures
The net movement of sediment (i.e. scour) around subsea structures can be difficult to
58


predict in practice, but must be estimated accurately to ensure offshore structures are
designed reliably. Much of the difficulty lies in predicting the erosion properties of sediment,
and then using these properties to estimate scour. In this project, model scale experiments of
subsea structures will be undertaken together with in-situ erosion testing to characterise the
erosion properties of sediment; the relationship between the scour rate and the erosion rate
will then investigated. The erosion testing will be carried out using a novel flume developed at
UWA to measure erosion properties, whilst the model scale scour experiments will be
performed in a recirculating flume at UWA.
This project forms part of the Woodside funded RiverLab project. More information is
available here: http://www.oceans.uwa.edu.au/collaborations/riverlab
Nener, Brett, Professor

Co-Supervisor: Parish, Giacinta, Professor
Advanced Sensing Technologies: Transistor-based biosensors

Disciplines: Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical, Mechatronic
Students will work together on the one or more of following integrated project components
(and will also work alongside students working in the adjacent projects on transistor-based
chemical sensors for contaminant monitoring).
1. Physical, chemical, materials and biological characterisation of functionalisation methods,
particularly surface and cell studies
2. Electrical, chemical, biochemical and physical characterisation and optimisation of
functionalised ion sensors
3. Mechanical, electrical and chemical characterisation and optimisation of packaging
techniques
4. Design and integration of complementary sensors (pH, temperature, drift compensation)
to maximise reliability.
5. Adapt device design, packaging, measurement protocols for reliable, reference electrode
free, operation.
6. Modelling of individual devices, packaged devices and the device-functionalisation layer-
solution interface.
Ocampo, Carlos Dr
Co-supervisors: Oldham, Carolyn, Prof
Nitrate mobilization mechanisms from a bioretention basin

affected
Disciplines: Civil and Environmental
Bioretention basins are structural elements used in water sensitive urban design (WSUD) to
improve water quality of surface runoff generated from urban areas. Their efficiency in
pollutant removal depends on their hydrological functioning (i.e. water movement through
the systems, moisture content in the underlying soil, interaction with shallow groundwater)
59


and the inflow of pollutants and biogeochemical conditions existing in the sediments acting as
filter media. Nitrate, an inorganic form of nitrogen, is a pollutant of concern in sandy soils of
the Perth Metropolitan area due to its rapid mobilization by water. Although laboratory and
field scale studies showed the potential for nitrate mobilization from biofilters and
bioretention basins, little is known about nitrate dynamics and mechanisms of mobilization
from a biofilter media interacting with shallow groundwater.
This project will use field data and 1D numerical model simulations to address nitrate
dynamics and its mobilization from a bioretention basin affected by shallow groundwater in
an urban development in Byford area (Perth, Western Australia).
Oldham, Carolyn, Professor

Co-supervisors: Boronina, Anastasia, Dr; Ocampo, Carlos, Dr
Mapping high groundwater under urban development -

Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane
Disciplines: Civil and Environmental
Urban development around Australia is increasingly planned in marshy areas with high
groundwater. This poses significant challenges for road pavements, foundations of
infrastructure and urban water management. Historically, this has been managed by importing
a large volume of clean sand to raise the building level above the groundwater level. However
the increasing cost of clean sand is driving a search of innovative solutions to the challenge.
Despite this challenge existing in many parts of Australia, there has been minimal work to
map shallow groundwater levels at sufficient resolution to be useful for infrastructure
developers. This project will undertake collation of existing groundwater data, collection of
validation data, mapping and conceptualising the shallow groundwater levels in Perth,
Brisbane and Melbourne. The work will have immediate benefit for urban designers in these
areas. The project will develop your understanding and skills in hydrogeology and hydrology,
and will provide network opportunities with a range of government departments.
It is strongly recommended that you take the unit GEOS4401 Hydrogeological Systems as an
Option Unit in 2017. You will probably need Special Approval from your Course
Coordinator for this. Prof. Oldham can help with the paperwork.
Parish, Giacinta, Professor

Co-Supervisor: Nener, Brett, Professor
Advanced Sensing Technologies: Transistor-based chemical

sensors for contaminant monitoring
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Electrical & Electronic, Environmental,
Materials, Mechanical, Mechatronic
Reliable, economically accessible technology for in situ monitoring of contaminants in water
has the power to transform health, industry, and society the world around. Applications of
60


such monitoring range from process control monitoring and optimisation for industry, to
water supply quality and wastewater monitoring, to environmental monitoring for resource
extraction, and beyond.
The microelectronics-based technology under investigation in this project will enable in situ,
real-time contaminant monitoring that is accurate, reliable and low-cost. Semiconductor-
based technology offers high performance and can also be mass produced at low-cost with
flexible functionalisation allowing for a variety of analytes. Furthermore, it offers the ability to
integrate multiple sensors into one chip, along with wireless communication technology for
maximum benefit of the in situ monitoring capability.
Students will work together on the one or more of following integrated project components
(and will also work alongside students working in the adjacent projects on transistor-based
biosensors).
1. Physical, chemical, materials characterisation of functionalisation methods, particularly
surface studies
2. Electrical, chemical and physical characterisation and optimisation of functionalised ion
sensors
3. Mechanical, electrical and chemical characterisation and optimisation of packaging
techniques
4. Design and integration of complementary sensors (pH, temperature, drift compensation)
to maximise reliability.
5. Adapt device design, packaging, measurement protocols for reliable, reference electrode
free, operation.
The ability to monitor biological and chemical signals with an electronic device is a
tremendously innovative approach for cell research and process control in pharmaceutical
and microbiological production, and chemical sensing applications. A bio-friendly, chemically
inert and stable III-Nitride-transistor-based bio/chem-sensor will be developed to detect
responses to various specific compounds/chemicals, particularly through cell receptors. The
successful development of this electronic biosensor technology has the potential to improve
health and disease treament through major improvemements in throughput, precision,
quality, speed and simplicity of, for example, drug and disease testing methods.
Pasternak, Elena, Professor

Co-supervisors: Dyskin, Arcady, Professor
Modelling of materials with microstructure and fragmented

structures
Prerequisite skills: Finite Element Modelling, Mathlab
Modelling of materials with mictrostructure (eg, layered and granular materials) and
fragmented solids, and evaluation of their mechanical properties is a challenging and exciting
task.
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Phan, Anthony, Research Associate
Co-supervisors: Karnowski, Karol, Research Fellow
OBEL: New generation of microscope in a needle

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Materials, Mechanical,
Mechatronic, Software
Our microscope in a needle won The Australian newspapers Innovation Challenge in 2015.
We are looking for passionate students who would like to participate in the prototyping of
next generation needle microscopes. Possible projects include: a robotic-like probe with
microscope objective and MEMS scanner; a robotic, ultra-light optical fibre-based probe with
piezo-actuated scanning mechanism for prolonged in vivo measurements; development of a
UV, or narrow band imaging needle, development of a concentric scanner to keep the needle
scan rotation perfectly axial; or development of algorithms to correct for non-uniform
rotation distortion. Within this project, we can accommodate students with different
background and interests, from 3D designing, optical instrumentation, electronics, and
mechatronics; from optical modeling, through designing, making and experimental testing.
Come and talk to us about this project.
Prince, Richard, Professor

Co-supervisors: Boussaid, Farid, Professor; Bennamoun, Mohammed, Professor
Automatic Detection software for calcifications in the

abdominal aorta
The project will be to supply a software solution to assist clinicians to identify calcifications in
the abdominal aorta (AA), which is the large blood vessel supplying the lower body. Increased
calcification in the AA has been shown in clinical studies to be a powerful predictor of heart
disease.
Software will open a clinical image from a database of clinical images. Each clinical image will
basically show the spine, AA and surrounding organs. The required software will scan
through the entire clinical image to isolate the required region of interest (ROI), which is the
AA. As images may be of low contrast, pre-processing of image via contrast enhancement,
image sharpening, etc, may be required. Within this identified ROI (the AA), the algorithm
will be required to search and identify calcifications based on grey-scale thresholds.
This analysis should also provide a concluding decision, based on one of the following
outcomes (i) calcification present, (ii) calcification not present OR (iii) possible calcification.
Post-processing of this analysis includes providing basic statistics such as number, location and
size of calcification identified, in a concluding report.
A graphics user interface to enable clear, easy and friendly use of the application should be
provided.
Reynolds, Mark, Prof
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Chinese Tones Classifier
Disciplines: Computer, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Software
Prerequisite skills: Good programming skills, eg Matlab
Chinese language pronunciation involves (four or) five tones. This means that in addition to
consonants and vowels, the pitch contour of a syllable is used to distinguish words from each
other. This project involves identifying the tonal type of a spoken syllable from the pitch
contour in sound recordings of words. The aim is to provide software that listens to a
learner pronounce some words using tones. The program then gives feedback to the learner
about whether the pronunciation is acceptable or, if not, then some explanation of the way
that it is wrong.
Reynolds, Mark, Prof

AI Tutor for Introductory Programming unit
Disciplines: Electrical Engineering, Software
Prerequisite skills: Good programming skills
The project is to develop an intelligent tutoring system to give quick and individualised
feedback to students learning some of the concepts in an introductory programming unit at
UWA. The system will learn from interaction with students engaged in specific lab exercises,
classifying the students' level of understanding of the concept and guiding them towards
mastering the knowledge and finding the solution of the exercise.
Sampson, David, Professor

Co-supervisors: Karnowski, Karol, Research Fellow
OBEL: Nanoscope in a Needle

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronic
Our group has developed the award-winning microscope-in-a-needle, which can image deep
in tissue at 10 micrometer resolution to a millimeter distance away from the needle. Now we
are developing next-generation needles that can image on the nanoscale, so that they can see
individual cells. This could be developing a needle-based optical fibre Raman system, a
confocal microscope in a needle, or a mechanical properties imager. The nanoscope could be
applied to anything from breast cancer to brain surgery to basic biology. This project will
investigate aspects of the system design and explore issues in implementing it in optical fibre.
It requires an interest in doing optical engineering of an advanced photonics-based
instrument. Come and talk to us about this project.
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Sampson, David, Professor
Co-supervisors: Rigby, Paul, CMCA, Karnowski, Karol, Research Fellow
OBEL: Selective Plane Illumination Microscopy (SPIM)

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, Software
One of the winners of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 2014 has moved on to light-sheet
microscopy, declaring it to be even better than his Nobel effort! We have built a Selective
Plane Illumination Microscope (SPIM) based on an open source. We now need to refine it,
tune it up and develop the software to enable it to be put to work. Expert microscopist and
applications specialist Paul Rigby from Optical Microscopy at the UWA core facility CMCA is
keen to see it put to work in real projects. Come and talk to us about this project.
Sercombe, Tim, Professor

Selective Laser Melting of Novel Materials
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Materials, Mechanical
Prerequisite skills: An interest in materials
Selective Laser Melting is a 3D Printing technique that produces metallic parts directly for
CAD models. It uses a high power laser beam to selectively melt areas of a powder bed to
form a single layer. The powder bed is then lowered and a new layer of powder deposited on
top and the process continues.
There are two projects available which build on projects about to finish. These are
1. Production of antibacterial Ti via SLM
2. Niobium
A third project will investigate a material yet to be examined.
Stanwix, Paul Dr
Co-supervisors: May, Eric, Prof
Microwave Cavities for Phase Behaviour Sensing

Accurate knowledge of the phase behaviour of fluid mixtures is crucial for the design and
operation of gas processing and transport systems. This project aims to develop innovative
fluid sensing technology using high-precision microwave cavities, which will be capable of
accurately investigating the behaviour of fluid mixtures near their phase boundaries. This
technology will be used to generate reference-quality data, necessary for development and
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validation of equations-of-state, and to understand the underlying mechanisms involved in
phase transitions. Students working on this project will contribute to the design and
modelling of microwave cavities, measurement of fluid mixture phase boundaries and phase
fractions, and development of automated measurement and data analysis systems.
Tian, Yinghui, Dr
Co-supervisors: Tran, Joe (Industry)
Numerical modelling of dynamic penetration and damage in

offshore engineering
Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical and Oil & Gas.
Dynamic and large deformation problems are very common in offshore engineering, such as
the penetration of anchors into seabed, damage of pipelines due to dropped objects, pile
driving etc. This project will carry out numerical modelling to investigate the mechanism of
these challenging problems. This project provides opportunity of learning the commercial
software ABAQUS and potential publishing the research work outcome.
Togneri, Roberto, Professor

Audio Surveillance
We live in a very insecure and dangerous world. Around every corner somebody is watching
us through that hidden CCTV camera, but most of the time they won't be listening. With the
advent of cheap and reliable audio sensors the ability to listen to the world around us, using
sound for surveillance has become reality. In this project you will join the team of PhD
students investigating audio event detection and scene classification and new approaches to
source unmixing to find the answer to the question: What can we see with our ears? For a
review of this topic please check out https://arxiv.org/pdf/1409.7787.

Co-supervisors: Bennamoun, Mohammed, Professor
Hands Free and Voice Free Data Entry using Visual Speech
In industrial shop floors and storage facilities there is a need for on-the-spot data entry. With
a potential noisy factory floor and the need to wear protective gloves makes hand input
cumbersone and voice input unreliable. In this project you will explore how far we can push
visual speech recognition (lip reading) by computer to augment limited keyboard or voice
entry in these environments. For a good background on visual speech recognition please
review https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/1409/1409.1411.pdf.
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Co-supervisors: Grinceri, Sonia, Ms
How to get the Perfect Accent

When a student attains mastery of a second language there is usually a desire to speak the
language like a native born speaker. To achieve this outcome the student must master
pronunciation of sounds in English language the individual sounds are vowels, diphthongs
and consonants. In this project you will explore how the different sounds of spoken English
are represented in the time-frequency domain and whether there is a way to differentiate the
native speaker from the learning speaker and how close the learning speaker is to the perfect
accent. For more information and some ideas have a look at
https://muse.jhu.edu/article/541306/pdf.

Co-supervisors: Nordholm, Sven, Professor
Improving intelligibility of Speech in Noise

Consider a scenario where there is communication between you, at the near-end, and
somebody else at the far end. However you are listening in a noisy environment. Can we
playback the far-end speech in such a way as to overcome the noise and improve speech
intelligibility? Modifying the playback of speech in the presence of noise is especially important
for hearing impaired people. In this project you will investigate how audio filters can be
optimised for this purpose and how we can improve our hearing. For one of many ideas have
a look at http://www.ceestaal.nl/Taal(2013).pdf.
Tong, Feifei, Dr
Co-supervisors: Zhou, Tongming, Professor
The vortex-induced vibrations of two cylinders in close

proximity
Disciplines: Civil and Ocean Systems
One of most interesting phenomenons of viscous flow around cylindrical structures is the
vortex-induced vibration (VIV), which have been attracting sustained research activities in
fluid mechanics; and in recent decades, the study has been further driven by developments in
coastal civil engineering, offshore oil and gas industry and ocean wave energy. Enormous
effort has been expended on understanding the flow behaviors around a bluff body, where
vortex shedding is expected to occur at certain condition. The vortex dynamics in the wake,
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along with the boundary layer development and separation around the structure, are believed
to attribute to the vortex-induced vibrations. This project aims to provide a quantitative
experimental study on vortex-induced vibrations of multiple rigidly-connected cylinders in the
wind tunnel. Depending on the cylinders' arrangement, the flow interference due to the
proximity of structures may completely alter the feature of vortex-induced vibration
compared to that of a single structure, and thus brings new understanding to this subject.
The project is suitable for students who aim to work in ocean&civil engineering or pursue a
higher degree in fluid mechanics after their undergraduate study.
While, Lyndon, Dr
Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark, Prof; French, Tim, Dr
Intelligent Optimisation of Engineering Problems

Disciplines: All Engineering Disciplines
Many complex engineering problems involve multiple objectives, complex constraints, and
large, difficult search spaces. Such problems are not amenable to simple optimisation
techniques such as exhaustive search or dynamic programming; instead they are routinely
tackled using 'intelligent' anytime search technology such as evolutionary algorithms or
market-based optimisation. In this project you will identify a specific optimisation problem
from your field of interest and you will attack this problem using one of these modern
computational intelligence techniques.
Note that you need to be a confident programmer to undertake this project: if you have
done only CITS2401, it would be best to consult Dr. While before making an application.
While, Lyndon, Dr
Co-supervisors: Reynolds, Mark, Prof; French, Tim, Dr
Intelligent Adaptive Scheduling for Dynamic Problems

Disciplines: Mining, Oil and Gas, Petroleum, Software
Prerequisite skills: A confident programmer
Many real-world scheduling problems are dynamic in nature: after a schedule is designed and
executed, real-time events require the system to adapt the schedule in order to maximise its
performance. Such adaptation is required to be fast, flexible, and accurate in the face of
rapidly-changing circumstances. In this project you will attack this class of problems with a
modern computational intelligence technique such as evolutionary algorithms or market-
based optimisation; example concrete problem instance(s) can be selected from your field of
interest.
Note that you need to be a confident programmer to undertake this project: if you have
done only CITS2401, it would be best to consult Dr. While before making an application.
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Wu, Gordon, Dr
Co-supervisors: Yang, Hong, Prof
Coating of nanostructured silver on collagen sheets and its

cell viability and antibacterial activity
Disciplines: Mechanical, Chemical
Coating of nanostructured silver on textile materials has gained intense research interest, due
to the powerful antimicrobial activity of silver being known to be effective against nearly 650
types of bacteria. This project explores the possibility of using silver coating on collagen
dressing sheets for medical application. It will be an experimental based project searching for
suitable process for coating nanostructured silver on collagen substrates. The focus of the
project will be on establishing process conditions on the quality and activity of resulted silver
coatings.
Zhang, Dongke, Professor

Co-supervisors: Zhu, Mingming Dr; Zhang, Zhezi, Mr
Pyrolysis of Spent Tyres

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Environmental, Materials, Mechanical, Oil &
Gas, Petroleum
Spent tyres discarded in Australia amounts to more than 400,000 tonnes per annum. Being
highly flammable, rich in sulphur and capable of releasing polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
and other toxins if burnt uncontrolledly, spent tyres in landfills and stockpiles pose serious
environmental hazards and health risks. Pyrolysis is a simple, robust, and scalable approach
for simultaneous production of gas, liquid and char. The overall aim of this project is to
investigate the operation conditions on the yield, composition and properties of pyrolysis
products including gas, liquid and solid residue.
Sub-project 1: Effect of pyrolysis temperature on the yield and composition of pyrolysis gas
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of pyrolysis

temperature on the yield and composition of pyrolysis gas. The pyrolysis will be performed in
a fixed bed reactor and the gas will be collected using gas bags for further analysis. The
compositions of pyrolysis gas will be analysed using GC-MS.
Sub-project 2: Effect of pyrolysis temperature on the yield and composition of pyrolysis liquid
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of pyrolysis

temperature on the yield and compositions of pyrolysis liquid. The pyrolysis will be
performed in a fixed bed reactor and pyrolysis liquid will be collected for further analysis.
The compositions of pyrolysis liquid will be analysed using GC-MS.
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Sub-project 3: Effect of pyrolysis temperature on the yield and properties of pyrolysis solid
residue
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of temperature on the
yield and composition of pyrolysis solid residue. The pyrolysis will be performed in a fixed
bed reactor and solid residue will be collected for further analysis. The solid residue will be
characterised for its proximate and ultimate analyses, BET surface area, pore volume and
pore size distribution, reactivity and surface functional groups.
Sub-project 4: Effect of particle size on the yield and composition of pyrolysis gas
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of particle size on the
yield and composition of pyrolysis gas the gas will be collected using gas bags for further
analysis. The pyrolysis will be performed in a fixed bed reactor and the gas will be collected
using gas bags for further analysis. The compositions of pyrolysis gas will be analysed using
GC-MS.

Co-supervisors: Zhang, Zhezi Mr; Preciado Hernandez, Jorge E.
Preparation of activated carbon from solid residue of spent

tyre pyrolysis
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Materials, Mechanical, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
The disposal of biomass and industrial wastes, such as forestry by-products, agriculture
residue, municipal wastes, spent tyre, represents a major environmental issue throughout the
world. Pyrolysis is a simple, robust, and scalable approach for simultaneous production of gas,
liquid and solid residue. Pyrolysis solid residue has a high potential to be upgraded into
various high value carbon materials (activated carbon, carbon black, metallurgical reductant,
soil conditioner etc.), this project will focus on the upgrading of the spent tyre pyrolytic solid
residue for activated carbon production.
Sub-project 1: activation using CO2/N2 mixture as the activation agent
The objective of this sub-project is to produce activated carbon form the solid residue of
spent tyre pyrolysis using CO2/N2 mixture. Activation experiments will be conducted in a
fixed-bed reactor. The effect of activation temperature, particle size, activation time and
molar ratio of CO2 to N2 on the product yield, physical and chemical properties of the
activated carbon products will be investigated. The physical and chemical properties will
include: BET surface area, pore volume and pore size distribution, particle size distribution,
reactivity, mineral form and content, surface functional groups, etc.
Sub-project 2: activation using steam/N2 mixture as the activation agent
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spent tyre pyrolysis using steam/N2 mixture. Activation experiments will be conducted in a
fixed-bed reactor. The effect of activation temperature, particle size, activation time and
molar ratio of steam to N2 on the product yield, physical and chemical properties of the
Sub-project 3: activation using CO2/steam/N2 mixture as the activation agent
spent tyre pyrolysis using CO2/steam/N2 mixture. Activation experiments will be conducted
in a fixed-bed reactor. The effect of activation temperature, particle size, activation time and
molar ratio of CO2 to steam on the product yield, physical and chemical properties of the
Sub-project 4: activation using alternating CO2/steam/N2 mixture as the activation agent
spent tyre pyrolysis using alternating CO2/steam/N2 mixture. Activation experiments will be
conducted in a fixed-bed reactor. The alternating CO2/steam/N2 mixture activation
experiments will start with CO2/N2 activation for a period of time, followed by steam/N2
activation for a period time and the combinations of the two activation agents thereafter. The
effect of activation temperature, particle size, and activation time on the product yield,
physical and chemical properties of the activated carbon products will be investigated. The
physical and chemical properties will include: BET surface area, pore volume and pore size
distribution, particle size distribution, reactivity, mineral form and content, surface functional
groups, etc.

Co-supervisors: Zhu, Mingming, Dr; Setyawan, Hendrix Y. Mr
Manufacturing of specialty carbon black by partial

combustion of heavy fraction of spent tyre pyrolysis liquid
Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Environmental, Materials, Oil & Gas, Petroleum
liquid and char. After desulphurisation and extraction of high value chemicals, the remaining
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heavy residue of the pyrolysis liquid still contains a high amount of PAHs, a great source
material for carbon black production. This project will focus on the manufacturing of
specialty carbon black by partial oxidation of the heavy liquid residue.
Sub-project 1: effect of temperature on the yield and properties of carbon black
yield and properties of carbon black produced. The experiments will be conducted using the
flat burner system. The flat burner will burn natural gas with air to provide high temperature
flue gas. The heavy pyrolysis liquid fraction will be injected at precise locations in the high
temperature to make carbon black. The carbon black will be produced at various flame
temperatures and then characterised for its physical and chemical properties. In this sub-
project, the carbon black will be characterised for proximate and ultimate analysis and BET
surface areas.
Sub-project 2: effect of temperature on the yield and properties of carbon black
temperature to make carbon black. The carbon black will be produced at various flame
temperatures and then characterised for its physical and chemical properties. In this sub-
project, the carbon black will be characterised for its pH value, loss on heating and particle
size distribution.
Sub-project 3: effect of residence time on the yield and properties of carbon black
temperature to make carbon black. The carbon black will be produced with various
residence times by varying the gas velocity and then characterised for its physical and
chemical properties. In this sub-project, the carbon black will be characterised for its
proximate and ultimate analysis and BET surface areas.
Sub-project 4: effect of residence time on the yield and properties of carbon black
temperature to make carbon black. The carbon black will be produced with various
residence times by varying the gas velocity and then characterised for its physical and
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chemical properties. In this sub-project, the carbon black will be characterised for its pH
value, loss on heating and particle size distribution.

Co-supervisors: Zhu, Mingming, Dr; Sunyoto, Nimas M.S. Ms
Two-phase anaerobic digestion

Disciplines: Chemical & Process, Environmental
Two-phase anaerobic digestion (TPAD) is expected to produce hydrogen enriched biogas has
higher quality and more ideal combustion properties than biogas produced from conventional
single phase anaerobic digestion. Biochar addition in single phase anaerobic digestion has been
proven to enhance the methane production by 32%. However, the effect of biochar addition
on TPAD has never been explored. This project will investigate the effect of biochar addition
on TPAD using different feedstock and under different operational conditions.
Sub-project 1: The effect of biochar addition and operation condition on the hydrogen
production from cheese whey
The aim of the study is to examine the effect of biochar addition and operation condition
(initial pH and temperature) on hydrogen production from the first phase of bench scale two
phase anaerobic digestion of cheese whey. The gas volume and compositions will be
measured daily using water displacement methods and GC, respectively. Volatile fatty acid
and pH as a function of time will also be monitored periodically.
Sub-project 2: The effect of biochar addition and operation condition on the methane
production from cheese whey
(initial pH and temperature) on methane production from the second phase of bench scale
two phase anaerobic digestion of cheese whey. The gas volume and compositions will be
measured daily using water displacement methods and GC TCD, respectively. Volatile fatty
acid (VFA) and pH changing will also be monitored periodically.
Sub-project 3: The effect of biochar addition and operation condition on the hydrogen
production from wastewater sludge
(initial pH and temperature) on hydrogen production from the first phase of bench scale two
phase anaerobic digestion of wastewater sludge. The gas volume and compositions will be
measured daily using water displacement methods and GC, respectively. Volatile fatty acid
and pH as a function of time will also be monitored periodically.
Sub- project 4: The effect of biochar addition and operation condition on the methane
production from wastewater sludge
(initial pH and temperature) on methane production from the second phase of bench scale
two phase anaerobic digestion of wastewater sludge. The gas volume and compositions will
be measured daily using water displacement methods and GC TCD, respectively. Volatile
fatty acid (VFA) and pH changing will also be monitored periodically.
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ZHANG, Dongke, Professor

Co-supervisors: Zhang, Zhezi Mr; Zhu, Mingming Dr
Catalytic cracking of tar over a bed of biochar using tar

model compounds
Tar is generated in biomass pyrolysis and gasification processes and is finally present in the
pyrolysis gas, resulting in the blocking and corrosion problems in the downstream processes.
It is of significance to develop an economic and sustainable method to crack the tar to
improve the quality and quantity of pyrolysis gaseous products. As biochar is a low-cost by-
product from pyrolysis with high catalytic activity, this project will focus on the catalytic
cracking of tar over a bed of biochar using tar model compound such as toluene.
Sub-project 1: Effect of cracking temperature on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas
product composition
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of cracking

temperature on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition. Tar
cracking experiments will be conducted in a fixed-bed reactor at different cracking
temperatures. The tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition will be
measured using GC-MS and GC-TCD/FID located at Centre for Energy of UWA. This sub-
project is expected to provide an insightful understanding of the effect of cracking
temperature on the tar cracking process.
Sub-project 2: Effect of residence time on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product
composition
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of residence time on
the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition. Tar cracking
experiments will be conducted in a fixed-bed reactor at different residence times. The tar
conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition will be measured using GC-
MS and GC-TCD/FID located at Centre for Energy of UWA. This sub-project is expected to
provide an insightful understanding of the effect of residence time on the tar cracking
process.
Sub-project 3: Effect of steam and oxygen additions on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and
gas product composition
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The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of steam and oxygen
addition on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition. Tar
cracking experiments will be conducted in a fixed-bed reactor with steam and oxygen
additions. The tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition will be
measured using GC-MS and GC-TCD/FID located at Centre for Energy of UWA. This sub-
project is expected to provide an insightful understanding of the effect of steam and oxygen
additions on the tar cracking process.
Sub-project 4: Effect of biochar particle size on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas
product composition
The objective of this sub-project is to experimentally study the effect of biochar particle size
on the tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product composition. Tar cracking
experiments will be conducted in a fixed-bed reactor while biochar with different particle
sizes will used as catalysts. The tar conversion rate, gas product yield and gas product
composition will be measured using GC-MS and GC-TCD/FID located at Centre for Energy
of UWA. This sub-project is expected to provide an insightful understanding of the effect of
biochar particle size on the tar cracking process.
Zhou, Tongming, Professor
A study of liquid sloshing in a partially-filled tank

Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical and Oil & Gas
Sloshing is a phenomenon which usually occurs in a partially-filled tank when the period of
the tank motion is close to the natural period of the fluid inside the tank. Large-amplitude
sloshing exerts high hydrodynamic loads on the tank wall, resulting in a high risk of damage to
the tank as well as the stability concerns of the tank. In oil and gas industry, vessels containing
LNG or oil will be under various excitation conditions in the ocean, which may result in
violent sloshing. It will produce localized impact pressure on the tank walls, which may in
turn cause structural damages and may create sufficient moment to destabilize the vessel
which carries the liquid tank. Hence, it is necessary to investigate sloshing dynamics in order
to design the tank walls for extra loads and to stabilise the tank for sloshing effect.
This project concerns experimental studies of liquid sloshing in a partially-filled tank under six
degrees of freedom excitations. Wave elevation and pressure variations induced by sloshing
in the tank will be measured under a range of excitation frequency, amplitude and liquid filled
depth. Nonlinearity of sloshing such as hydraulic jump, breaking wave and liquid impact on
the ceiling of the tank will be studied systematically.
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Suppression of vortex-induced vibration through structural

damping
Disciplines: Civil, Mechanical and Oil & Gas
Vortex shedding is a phenomenon that occurs when a flow passes a bluff body. The shedding
process causes time-dependent forces, and when resonance occurs, these forces can cause
structural vibration. Excessive motion of the structures will result in structural failure.
Therefore, a marine riser, which may experience strong sea currents and waves, must be
designed such that excessive motion due to vortex shedding can be prevented or mitigated.
In the present project, suppression of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) through structural
damping will be examined in a wind tunnel. The students will need to work as a group to find
appropriate methods to change the structural damping, e.g. by inserting a smaller elastic pipe
inside the pipe (which is used as a model for a marine riser). The effectiveness of this
structural modification on VIV will then evaluated in a wind tunnel.
Suppression of vortex shedding from a pipeline using porous

bodies
Vortex shedding is a phenomenon that occurs when a flow passes a bluff body. The shedding
process can induce vibration (which is normally termed as vortex-induced vibration, or VIV),
which, at resonance, can result in excessive motion and possible structural failure. Therefore,
a bluff body, which may experience strong wind or water flow, must be designed such that
excessive motion due to vortex shedding can be prevented or mitigated. In the present
project, various passive control methods, for example, by using porous body, will tested in a
water flume on the reduction of vortex shedding. Particle image velocimetry will be used to
examine the wake features after the control is used and the results can then be compared
with that of a bare pipe.
Zhu, Mingming, Dr
Co-supervisors: Zhang, Dongke, Prof; Zhang Ce, Mr
Spent tyre pyrolysis liquid: speciation, desulphurization,

distillation, recovery of valuable chemicals and synthetic
fuels
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liquid and char. The raw pyrolysis liquid needs to be upgraded, due to presence of impurities,
such as water, particulates and sulphur, before further process and utilisation. This project
will screen various commercial adsorbents and catalysts for the sulphur removal.
Sub-project 1: mesoporous alumina oxides based adsorbents
The objective of this sub-project is to investigate the feasibility of the use of some
commercial mesoporous alumina oxides based adsorbents for sulphur removal in spent tyre
pyrolysis liquid. The experiments will be conducted in a batch reactor. The effect of
temperature, alumina oxides loading ratio and operation time on the removal efficiency of
sulphur will be studied. The chemical compositions of raw and processed liquids will be
analysed using advanced analytical techniques including GC, GC-MS and HPLC for
identification of sulphur containing species.
Sub-project 2: ZSM-5 zeolites based adsorbents
commercial ZSM-5 zeolites oxides based adsorbents for sulphur removal in spent tyre
pyrolysis liquid. The experiments will be conducted in a batch reactor. The effect of
temperature, adsorbent loading ratio and operation time on the removal efficiency of sulphur
will be studied. The chemical compositions of raw and processed liquids will be analysed
using advanced analytical techniques including GC, GC-MS and HPLC for identification of
sulphur containing species.
Sub-project 3: Activated carbon
commercial activated carbon for sulphur removal in spent tyre pyrolysis liquid. The
experiments will be conducted in a batch reactor. The effect of temperature, adsorbent
loading ratio and operation time on the removal efficiency of sulphur will be studied. The
sulphur content in the pyrolysis liquid before and after being processed will be measured,
respectively. The sulphur containing species will also be identified using GC-MS.
Sub-project 4: layered double hydroxides based adsorbents
commercial layered double hydroxides for sulphur removal in spent tyre pyrolysis liquid. The
experiments will be conducted in a batch reactor. The effect of temperature, adsorbent
loading ratio and operation time on the removal efficiency of sulphur will be studied. The
sulphur content in the pyrolysis liquid before and after being processed will be measured,
respectively. The sulphur containing species will also be identified using GC-MS.
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ENGINEERING, COMPUTING AND MATHEMATICS

Bachelor of Engineering & Master of Professional

Final Year Project Descriptions

Ajmal, Mian, Associate Professor

Facial Expression and Emotion Recognition

Flow Assurance and Natural Gas Hydrates

Tidal current induced local scour around square pile groups

Hollow and concrete filled spiral welded steel tube columns

Hollow and geopolymer concrete-filled GFRP tubes columns

Compression buckling analysis of CFRP strengthened mild

Fire-performance of concrete members reinforced with FRP

Beckett, Chris. Dr.

What's HAPpening with soil compaction?

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Design of a scalable battery management system for high

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Design of an enhanced building or equipment access control

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Emergency first responders software tool kit

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Evaluation of Lithium battery performance in challenging

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Road condition monitoring and reporting system using

Disciplines: Computer, Electrical & Electronic, Software

Boussaid, Farid, Professor

Software app to assist inter-generational communications in

Braunl, Thomas, Professor

Braunl, Thomas, Professor

Autonomous Driving Systems

Braunl, Thomas, Professor

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV)

Braunl, Thomas, Professor

Chow, Shiao Huey, Dr

Interpretation of a new generation free-fall penetrometer

Interested students are encouraged to contact Dr Shiaohuey Chow

Figure 1 Free-fall cone penetrometer (FFP) developed at UWA

Oceanic turbulence mixing and material transport

Chua, Hui Tong, Professor

High flux bright light synthesis of valuable nanomaterials

Chua, Hui Tong, Professor

Catalytic cracking of methane for graphitic carbons and

Chua, Hui Tong, Professor

Industrial waste heat distillation, desalination, bauxite

3. Bauxite residue remediation - using centrifuge to dewater mining residue, an exciting

Chua, Hui Tong, Professor

Drones / Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Durham, Richard, Prof

Industry topic (usually based on your vacation work)

Dyskin, Arcady, Prof

Oscillations in reinforced concrete

Dyskin, Arcady, Prof

Dyskin, Arcady, Prof

Seismic proof interlocking structures

Elchalakani, Mohamed, Dr.

FE Modeling of Concrete Filled Tubular Columns

Elchalakani, Mohamed, Dr.

GFRP RC Columns under Dynamic Lateral Impact

GFRP RC Beams under Dynamic Lateral Impact

Faiello, Cosimo, Associate Professor

Effect of interface roughness on the bearing capacity of

Consolidated undrained load-carrying capacity of rectangular

Effect of interface roughness on the bearing capacity of

Fourie, Andy, Prof

Strategies to reduce the risk of liquefaction of layered soils