Leader: W D Cook

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The importance of ceramic properties on their manufacturing is highlighted. The mechanical and thermal properties of ceramics, the structure and production of amorphous ceramics and porous ceramics, the glass transition, optical and electrical properties of glass. The mechanical properties of polymers are very dependent on the timescale and temperature and so the structural basis of linear viscoelasticity and time/temperature superposition are discussed. The mechanical properties of elastomers, crosslinking and reinforcement, rubber elasticity and the tear and fatigue of elastomers. The Eyring theory and methods of toughening polymers are discussed.

Objectives

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:

1. develop a detailed understanding of the processing methods of ceramics and understand how their properties are controlled by their structure; be able to predict the behaviour of thermosets, elastomers and composites, based on their composition

2. develop a detailed understanding of the time and temperature dependent mechanical properties of plastics and elastomers, and the mechanisms of deformation and methods of toughening them.

Assessment

Four written assignments: 20%
Practical classes: 20%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lecture/tutorial classes and seven hours of private study per week. 4 x 5-hour practical classes throughout the semester

Prerequisites

MTE2541 or MSC2011

Co-requisites

MTE2545

Prohibitions

MTE3504, MTE3507