Daria Kolbas: “Friction and wear testing contribute to the long-term safety of nuclear reactors”

Daria Kolbas is a doctoral student in Machine Elements doing research on friction and wear material testing for nuclear reactors.

Where do you come from? Where have you been?

I am Russian, and even given my country's reputation, I believe that our culture and traditions have helped me become a curious, open-minded, and caring person. I did my bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Oil and Gas, which helped me become a big proponent of all types of alternative energy production methods other than fossil fuels. During my studies, I got the opportunity to work in a research center in Austria. The environment of an international scientific organisation gave me the dream of at least trying my hand as a member of a research team.

What brought you to Luleå University of Technology?

I was looking for a project where my knowledge and experience can be applied. The position description in LTU looked like a perfect match, as it not only aligned with my background but also corresponded with my interest. Couple it with the most friendly and nice interview known in my informational bubble, and we get me starting the second year of PhD at LTU.

What is your research contribution to Creaternity?

My research is the integrated part of a SUNRISE project which is aimed to design a small modular lead-cooled research reactor. In the project, we are motivated to show how safety, circularity, and sustainability became the highest priority and integral parts of all nuclear-connected research projects. Material testing to friction and wear resistance (our CiNEMaT project) provides information about the degradation mechanism and behaviour of materials under the operating conditions of the reactor. Therefore, we contribute to improved long-term safety and productivity for the next generation of nuclear reactors and share trustworthy scientific knowledge about the modern state of nuclear energy.

Why is Creaternity important?

Creaternity is about broadening horizons in understanding what it means to be a researcher and how to communicate between the stakeholders of our research. The perspectives of people from different fields show how interconnected our research can and should be for implementing innovations with sustainability in mind.

Where are you going?

On my way to completing a worthwhile research project. I believe I am exactly where I wanted to be, and making an effort to both enjoy the journey and achieve decent results. Once I finish my PhD, I would like to continue working in this field, and there is still time to decide whether it will be industry or academia.

• Contact: Daria Kolbas