8 Questions with Sachini Dissanayake, ACM CRC PhD Student

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sachini Dissanayake from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, Deakin University.

Sachi is pursuing her doctorate in designing and investigating a durable self-healing epoxy coating, at Deakin University. She completed her BSc (Hons) in Polymer Chemistry at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka, and now aims to develop a coating capable of autonomously and repeatedly restoring its properties under typical environmental conditions that, in the long term, will serve as a protective layer to enhance the durability of composite materials. Sachi is fascinated by materials with unique functionalities – materials that can change shape or even clean themselves – and truly believes that functional materials are the future and hold the potential to transform our world.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

RP1 High-Performance Composite Materials.

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research focuses on designing and investigating a durable self-healing epoxy coating. The aim is to develop a coating capable of autonomously and repeatedly restoring its properties under typical environmental conditions. In the long term, this coating will serve as a protective layer to enhance the durability of composite materials.

3. When did you become interested in this field? And what made you interested in it?

Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by materials with unique functionalities – materials that can change shape or even clean themselves. As I grew older, this interest turned into a desire to create these innovative materials myself. I truly believe that functional materials are the future and hold the potential to transform our world.

4. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to develop a self-healing epoxy coating that can autonomously repair itself under normal environmental conditions. This coating would provide a reliable, long-lasting protective layer for composite materials, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.

The primary challenge I hope to solve is creating a coating that not only restores its properties upon damage, but does so repeatedly and effectively over time while being durable under the conditions. By tackling these challenges, I hope my work can contribute to more sustainable and resilient materials in industries where composites are heavily used, such as the aerospace and automotive sectors.
 

5. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to become a recognised scientist in the field of materials science, contributing innovative solutions that address critical challenges in durability, functionality, and sustainability. I want to lead research that not only advances our understanding of self-healing and functional materials, but also pushes the boundaries of what materials can achieve in real-world applications.

Beyond individual research achievements, I aim to build a collaborative network with scientists and industry leaders worldwide, bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications. Ultimately, I envision developing materials that are integral to sustainable technologies and resilient infrastructure, making a meaningful impact on industries and society. This vision drives my commitment to both deep scientific exploration and impactful innovations.

6.  What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Networking with key experts in the field is invaluable, aligning perfectly with my long-term goal of building meaningful professional connections. ACM CRC provides exceptional support and guidance to collaborative opportunities that deepen my expertise. Being part of this community enriches my research journey and helps me work toward becoming an established scientist in materials science. 

7. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

If you are passionate – you can do it!

8. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

That’s a hard one. I'm a good singer and I love playing the guitar.