Kian Kun Yap received his BEng in Mechanical Precision Engineering from the University of Technology Malaysia and his MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College London. As a top performer in his cohort, he was awarded a scholarship to continue his studies and in 2020 he started his PhD project in the Tribology Group at Imperial College London on the topic of in-situ tribometry and environment control for polymer transfer film characterisation. Starting with the understanding that most polymer wear mechanisms mentioned in tribology textbooks are simplified and idealised representations of reality, Yap has spent most of his period as a PhD student questioning these theories, showing that often they are only applicable under specific conditions.
Yap has developed a suite of techniques that allow quantification of tribological processes in real-time, both using a 'demonstrator tribosystem' with transparent specimens for in-contact observations, but also in actual industrially relevant systems, using steel and plastic specimens. A key element of his work is that it requires detailed understanding of basic in-contact phenomena, which are subsequently analysed and assessed using techniques that are non-standard in the typical tribologist's toolbox. He has previously applied spatiotemporal mapping, high speed imaging and holographic microscopy, and currently he is making further improvements to the tribometer he uses, to develop an integrated system for high resolution in-situ tribometry. Additionally, he is applying advanced optical theory to investigate the thickness of the polymer transfer layer whilst the test is ongoing, ensuring that the instantaneous wear rates he quotes are accurate. His original and persistent approach is an invaluable asset to the field.
Yap has a depth of understanding of tribology that is unique for a young scientist. His work has received much attention and praise at international conferences, and he has won several awards. Yap’s originality and skill is widely admired by his peers and he often assists his colleagues in their investigations and helps them with their experimental setups, either by implementing improvements or troubleshooting. During the pandemic Yap took a leading role in tribology-focused COVID-19 research, and currently he is helping fellow researchers in the tribology group to improve medical outcomes in neurosurgery and cancer research. Yap has the ability and intellect to learn and apply new methods and techniques and he questions theories and given 'truths' until he understands the underlying assumptions and limitations and is ready to apply them.
Within the Department Yap is in high demand as a teaching assistant for a variety of modules. In his interaction with students, he is noted for his ability to explain complex subjects using simple language, his patience and calmness, and his humour.
Yap is currently finalising his PhD research and writing up his thesis and plans to remain active in the Tribology Research community. He is a worthy recipient of the Tribology Bronze Medal.