About the project
This PhD project develops multifunctional soft actuatable materials for integrated sensing, actuation, and energy harvesting in biomedical loaded-body interfaces. Using polypyrrole (via ion intercalation/electroosmotic swelling for bending) or IPMC (ionic migration causing asymmetric swelling), devices target plantar-shoe interfaces for people with foot dysfunctions, residual limb-socket for lower-limb amputees, and wheelchair seating to enhance comfort, pressure management, and mobility.
The research addresses poor pressure distribution, discomfort, and tissue damage at loaded-body interfaces in prosthetics and mobility aids. Current rigid sockets and cushions fail to adapt dynamically to movement, moisture, or volume changes, leading to ulcers, pain, and reduced quality of life for people with disabilities (PWDs), lower-limb amputees, and wheelchair users.
This project develops advanced soft smart materials combining sensing, actuation, and energy harvesting. Materials include polypyrrole (PPy)-based composites, where actuation occurs via electrochemical doping/undoping causing ion intercalation and electroosmotic swelling for large bending deformation, or ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMC), relying on cation migration under low voltage inducing asymmetric hydration/swelling for bending. These enable self-sensing, active pressure re-distribution, and energy harvesting to power integrated sensors.
Intended outcomes include adaptive interfaces:
- plantar shoe inserts for people with foot dysfunctions that sense and adjust pressure in real-time
- residual limb-socket linings for amputees that conform to volume changes and mitigate shear
- wheelchair seating cushions that redistribute load and harvest energy from sitting motion
The work matters for improving comfort, preventing injury, and promoting independence in ageing populations and disabled communities.
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
