This module builds on the previous module ‘Materials Properties and Processes, MATR3111’, year three of the programme and concentrates on the more advanced applications and processes of engineering materials as well as using materials in an environmentally friendly way. The engineering materials given particular attention are polymers, ceramics, glass and composites. Thermal properties are given attention for the purpose of multiphase materials such as composites and electronics.
This module also introduces and advances the student’s knowledge of the relationship between the structure-process-property relationship and applications of metalworking processes. It includes topics such as crystallographic structures, dislocation generation and plastic deformation, both cold and hot. The analysis of a range of deformation processes builds on the relationships of stress, strain, rate, temperature and deformation.
The importance of the structure-process-property-environmental relationship is developed to a more advanced level and supported in the laboratory sessions. The laboratory sessions are driven by the student and are project-based. Advanced analytical techniques are introduced and used including scanning and backscattering, high-resolution electron microscopy, elemental analysis using arc spark and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
More advanced materials are introduced including plastic, super-plastic, super-elastic materials and biomaterials.
Polymers:
- Structure (Atomic bonding, repeat units, chain length, crystallinity, copolymerisation, alloying, blending, linear, branching, cross-linking, etc.),
- Properties (Effect of variables including temperature, time and pressure on properties, viscoelastic, and consequently the choice of manufacturing method and parameters),
- Manufacturing processing methods including addition and condensation polymerization and key variables,
- Environment and Recycling Current Research Trends including nanomaterials and technology.
Ceramics and Glasses:
- Structure (Micro- and macrostructure, density and pore size and shape),
- Properties (Predictability, property distribution, Weibull Modulus, relationship with structure and determining manufacturing methods and variables),
- Manufacturing processing methods and key variables,
- Environment and recycling,
- Current research trends including nanomaterials and technology.
Composites:
- Structure (Fibre size, shape, orientation, continuous, discontinuous),
- Properties (Effect on strength, stiffness, density, toughness),
- Manufacturing and processing methods,
- Current research trends.
Thermal Properties:
- Thermal properties,
- Structure-property relationship,
- Criteria for single and multiphase materials.
Advanced Analytical Techniques:
- Scanning electron microscope (low to highest resolutions), Transmission electron microscope,
- X-ray Diffraction,
- Arc Spark,
- Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy,
- Inductively coupled plasma analysis,
- Thermo-gravimetric analysis,
- Differential scanning calorimetry analysis.
Metals:
- Nature and purpose of metalwork theory,
- Stress-strain curves (engineering & true),
- Strain hardening, constants, structure, crystals, 3-D dislocation generation,
- Cause and influence of strain hardening rate and associated constants on processing,
- Ideal working conditions and assumptions,
- Applications to Extrusion, Machining, Wiredrawing, Hot and Cold Forging Applications to plastic, super-plastic materials.
- Applications for many advanced materials including titanium and aluminium alloys. Also polymers.
Materials and process selection.
Laboratory Sessions (Metals, Ceramics, Polymers & Composites):
- The laboratory sessions are driven by the student and are individual project-based investigations. Advanced analytical techniques are used including scanning and backscattering, high-resolution electron microscopy, elemental analysis using arc spark and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Optical microstructure, physical property (density, optical, thermal) and mechanical property analysis.
Lectures
Continuous Assessments
Practical Lab Sessions
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 80 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 20 |