MATS32402 10 Semester 2 Undergraduate Level 6 Cristina Valles Unit coordinator Department of Materials 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Last part of a Bachelors ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 5.0 <p>The unit provides comprehensive coverage of multiphase polymer systems, in particular blends, block copolymers and nanocomposites (larger-scale fibre reinforced composites are covered in MATS 31301).&nbsp;</p> <p>The unit provides comprehensive coverage of multiphase polymer systems, in particular blends, block copolymers and nanocomposites (larger-scale fibre reinforced composites are covered in MATS 31301). Lecture topics include:</p><ul><li>Overview of the different types of multiphase polymer systems.</li><li>The thermodynamics of liquid-liquid phase separation, Flory-Huggins theory.</li><li>Mechanisms of phase separation; nucleation and growth, spinodal decomposition.</li><li>The advantages of polymer blending. Commercial polymer blends.</li><li>Types of block copolymers (diblock, triblock, multiblock).</li><li>Microphase separation of block copolymers.</li><li>Commercial block copolymers (polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers), reactive moulding of polyurethane elastomers.</li><li>The types of polymer nanocomposites (PNC), with nanoscale reinforcements of 1D, 2D or 3D structure.</li><li>Processing of PNC. Rheology of the polymer-nanofiller blends.</li><li>Structure-property relationships in polymer nanocomposites, using examples of PNC formed with common reinforcements, such as nanosilica, carbon nanotubes, layered silicates or graphene.</li><li>Multifunctional PNC. Electrical, thermal and optical properties of PNC.</li><li>Current applications of PNC in automotive and electronic industries.</li><li>Applications of multiphase polymers and their environmental issues.</li></ul> <p>The unit aims to:</p><ul><li>Provide the student with an understanding of the structure-property relationships of multiphase polymer systems, the theories that underpin their formation, structure and properties and how applications for these materials stem from their behaviour.</li></ul> <p>A greater depth of the learning outcomes will be covered in the following sections:</p> <ul> <li> Knowledge and understanding</li> <li> Intellectual skills</li> <li> Practical skills</li> <li> Transferable skills and personal qualities</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Describe the range of multiphase polymers and their advantages relative to single-phase polymers.</li> <li>Explain the principles and theory of phase separation in polymer blends and block copolymers.</li> <li>Evaluate the beneficial effects of nanoscale reinforcements.</li> <li>Justify of the applications of multiphase polymers and explain their environmental issues.</li> <li>Describe the types of nanoparticle fillers.</li> <li>Understand the main factors determining the mechanical and functional properties of polymer nanocomposites.</li> <li>Give examples of current applications of polymer nanocomposites.</li></ul> <ul> <li>Assess and interpret data from DMTA in order to determine polymer structure.</li> <li>Apply simple models to predict the modulus of polymer blends and polymer nanocomposites.</li> <li>Apply simple models to evaluate functional properties of polymer nanocomposites.</li> <li>Evaluate X-Ray diffraction data, Scanning and Transmission</li> <li>Electron Microscopy images to characterise the structural&nbsp;properties of polymer nanocomposites.</li></ul> <ul> <li>Solve problems utilising appropriate methods.</li> <li>Assess results critically.</li></ul> <p>Blended learning programme: Including asynchronous activities (including video lectures, self-test quizzes, directed reading) and (live) synchronous activities (including Q&amp;A sessions, quizzes and tutorials).</p><p>Canvas – All asynchronous activities, lecture notes, questions sheets and handouts will be available electronically. Synchronous activities will be recorded and will also be available electronically.</p> 1 Written exam 70% 2 Written assignment (inc essay) 30% <p>Verbal and written</p> N <p>The recommended reading for this unit can be found on the <a href="https://manchester.alma.exlibrisgroup.com/leganto/readinglist/lists/341380202980001631">online unit reading list</a>.</p> Lectures 22 Practical classes & workshops 6 Tutorials 3 0 69