Leader: K. Suzuki

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

Introduction to techniques critical to characterizing the structure of different classes of materials. Techniques suited to metals, ceramics, polymers and composites including (optical, x-ray, electron-optic, infra-red, thermal, and mechanical methods) and the reasons for their suitability so that they may make an informed choice of technique in the work environment. Limitations of the techniques will be studied in terms of the material type and also the length-scale of the information required. Data analysis, interpretation and presentation will form part of the exercises by which students examine the techniques and their limitations. Links between structure and properties will be explored.

Objectives

To develop:

1. The ability to select an appropriate characterisation technique for examination of a metal, polymer, ceramic, or composite
2. The ability to describe key characterisation techniques appropriate for the examination of different material classes at different length scales
3. Skills in the interpretation of experimental data
4. An awareness of the relationship between material structure and material properties
5. An awareness of the limitations of characterisation techniques.

Assessment

Three assignments: 45%
Examination (3 hours): 55%

Contact hours

150 hours of private study