Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Bonding: atomic/molecular arrangement. Crystal systems: directions and planes, stereographic projection; metallic, ionic and ceramic crystals. Defects: vacancies and interstitials; dislocations; stacking faults, twin and grain boundaries. Thermodynamics: condensed systems; entropy, Gibbs free energy; ideal and non-ideal solutions; surface energy and microstructure. Phase Equilibria and Microstructures: Gibbs phase rule; free energy diagrams; phase diagrams; deviations from ideality, phase separation; ordering; eutectic, eutectoid, peritectic and peritectoid reactions; non-equilibrium microstructures, implications for physical properties.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will be able to: identify the different materials from which everyday products are made; understand the role of the different materials in the operation of that product; appreciate how the component would have been fabricated; understand the origins of mechanical properties of materials at the macroscopic (continuum) and microscopic (atomic) levels; appreciate the importance of a co-operative team effort in materials evaluation; and prepare written reports on laboratory experiments.

Assessment

Examinations (3 hours): 50%
Mid semester test: 10%
Laboratory work: 25%
Written assignments: 15%
Students must achieve a pass mark in the laboratory component to achieve an overall pass grade.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor George Simon

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lecture/tutorial classes per week. Six 3-hour laboratory classes per semester.

Prohibitions

MTE2541