MEC4804 - Clean energy materials - 2018

This unit aims to introduce materials that revolutionise the current world with various energy options and future development trends. This unit covers fundamental concepts, principles and applications of energy materials, focusing on the design and development of advanced materials for sustainable energy generation and storage system. The following materials will be discussed, such as semiconductors for photovoltaics, solar cells, thermoelectric materials, piezoelectric materials, fuel cells, hydrogen production and storage. Preparation techniques and testing methods of energy materials will be included.

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Explain the theory and basic principles of materials in energy conversion, storage and utilisation.
2. Assess the role of materials in solving energy crisis due to the reliance on nonrenewable energy sources and their negative impact.
3. Evaluate various materials for emerging energy technologies to determine the most suitable option for a particular case based on the increasing demand for high quality and reliable energy.
4. Perform the design, characterization and preparation of materials for sustainable energy generation and storage system.
5. Analyse structure-property-performance relationships of materials that may improve energy conversion efficiency.

Continuous assessment: 50%

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. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

3 hours lectures, 2 hours of tutorials/labs and 7 hours of private study per week.

See also Unit timetable information

Mechanical Engineering