Material Science

On completion students should be able to: 1. explain the basic concepts and mechanism of atomic structure, configuration, inter- atomic bonding, crystals and microstructure; 2. explain/discuss the relationship between structure and properties of materials; 3. explain the characteristics of phase diagrams and phase transformations of solid solutions (alloys); 4. determine the components and compositions of phase diagrams and phase transformations of solid solutions (alloys); 5. discuss the different types, causes and effects of corrosion and methods of its prevention and mitigation; and 6. discuss the basic principles of nanotechnology, nanomaterials and engineering applications.

Introduction to electronic configuration, atomic structures, inter-atomic bonding mechanisms, crystal and microstructure. Relationships between structure and properties of metals, alloys, ceramics and polymers. Principles of the behaviour of materials in common environments. Phase diagrams and phase transformations of metal solutions. Effect of engineering design, engineering materials processing, selection, manufacturing and assembling on the performance and service life of engineering materials. Corrosion: types, causes and effects of corrosion, corrosion prevention and mitigation. Fabrication processes and applications. Basic nanotechnology, nanomaterials and engineering applications.