MEC4425 - Micro/nano solid and fluid mechanics

Leader(s): J Friend and L Yeo

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

Introducing micro- and nano-technology in the design of next-generation electronic and energy systems and biomedical devices. Basic concepts and physics of micro\nano-systems, including continuum and molecular theories, Low Reynolds number flows, capillary effects and interfacial flows. Flows in channels of arbitrary dimensions, convective-diffusive mass transport, electro hydrodynamics including classical double layer theory, electrophoresis, electroosmosis, dielectric polarisation and dielectrophoresis are discussed. Active materials, scaling issues, contact mechanics and the design of micro/nano-fluidic devices. Modelling and analysis of systems using Matlab and Mathematica.

Objectives

To instill

1. exposure to the emerging fields of micro and nano technology, particularly for biomedical engineering

2. thorough understanding of the physical behaviour of solids and fluids at the micron and nanometer length scales through continuum and molecular theories

3. an understanding of the difficulties in fabrication, manipulation, and imaging of components at the micro scale and beyond

4. an appreciation of the various fluid transport mechanisms in micro/nano channels or devices and physical interaction mechanisms in solids at the micro/nano scale

5. knowledge in the design of micro/nano-electro-mechanical-systems and micro/nano-fluidic devices for various bio-applications

6. construct models of micro/nano components and systems

7. solve the fundamental equations of motion governing the dynamics of such systems analytically, semi-analytically or using numerical techniques to understand their behaviour for prediction and design

8. apply the knowledge provided in the course for the design of practical micro/nano devices

9. know where and how to continue learning on advanced and/or new topics in micro/nano solid and fluid mechanics.

Assessment

Laboratory work: 15%
Design project 20%
Examination (3 hours): 65%

Contact hours

3 hours lectures, 3 hours practical classes and 6 hours of private study per week

Prerequisites

Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering students: MEC3451, MEC3453 and MEC3455.
Mechatronics students: 120 points including TRC2200 and TRC3200