Materials science

Materials science and engineering aims at understanding the relationship between structure, processing and properties of materials to optimize their performance. In this course we attempt to establish this connection to interpret the macroscopic behavior of materials (e.g., why does rubber deform easier than steel) by penetrating different length scales (atomistic, mesoscopic) and identifying the critical characteristics and the pertinent mechanisms. We will examine the role of structure or the absence thereof in determining material properties, as well as how these properties depend on the operating conditions (e.g., why does the stiffness of amorphous polymers fall so drastically beyond a critical temperature). The course emphasises on mechanical properties and to a lesser degree on thermal properties. (Optical, electrical and magnetic properties could only be included on a rudimentary level and are excluded in favor of a more thorough understanding of the former.)

Objectives

acquainting the student mainly with the mechanical behavior of materials and the connection between properties and structure. means end problem solving through the concepts presented in the course.

Prerequisites

basic concepts in mathematics and thermodynamics

Syllabus

primary and secondary bonding, atomic packing in crystalline or amorphous states, effect of bond strength and structure on elastic properties, effect of temperature and strain rate on polymers, true and nominal quantities in the describing the mechanical behavior of materials, plastic deformation of crystalline materials - crystal imperfections, plastic deformation of amorphous and polymeric materials, brittle and ductile fracture, ductile to brittle transition, fatigue, creep and diffusion.