MTE2546 - Mechanics of materials - 2017

This unit deals with the deformation behaviour of materials subject to external forces. Students are introduced to the basics of solid mechanics in a Materials Science and Engineering perspective. The first part of this unit focuses on the mathematical description of stress, strain, and the relationship between them through material models. Topics that will be covered include the theory of linear elasticity, failure criteria, and an introduction to plasticity and viscoelasticity theory. The second part of this unit describes the deformation behaviour of materials from an experimental point of view. Topics include hardening behaviour, ductile and brittle facture, creep and fatigue. A basic introduction to fracture mechanics is also provided.

At the successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Use the concepts of stress and strain to describe mechanical loading configurations commonly encountered in engineering applications.
2. Describe and compare the main features of constitutive theories for elastic, elasto-plastic and viscoelastic behaviour.
3. Analyse simple mechanics case studies using the theory of linear thermo-elasticity and failure criteria.
4. Describe and compare commonly used mechanical testing techniques.
5. Describe and compare the physical processes of creep, ductile and brittle fracture, and fatigue failure in relation with the underlying micromechanisms.
6. Determine simple problems of linear fracture mechanics.

Continuous Assessment: 40%

Laboratory work: 10%

Examination (2 hours): 50%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit.

3 hours lectures, 3 hours of laboratory and 6 hours of private study per week.

See also Unit timetable information

Professor Nick Birbilis