Principles of Polymers & Composites

MATS68301 Principles of Polymers & Composites 15 Semester 1 Postgraduate Taught Level 6 Charles Darko Unit coordinator Department of Materials 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Masters/Integrated Masters P4 ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 7.5 Fundamental concepts in polymer and polymer composite science will be covered with key topics  Fundamental concepts in polymer and polymer composite science will be covered with key topics including:<ul> <li> Concepts and nomenclature: basic definitions; nomenclature; stereochemistry; molecular weight; and sources.</li> <li>  Introduction to synthesis of polymers: principles of polymerisation; and step, radical, cationic, anionic, ring-opening and coordination polymerisations.</li> <li> Fundamentals of polymer characterisation: molar mass measurement; determination of composition and structure using spectroscopy; and thermal analysis.</li> <li> Overview of the phase structure and morphology of bulk polymers: the amorphous state; the crystalline state; and multicomponent polymer systems.</li> <li> Introduction to the properties of bulk polymers: elastic deformation; viscoelasticity; elastomers; yield and crazing; fracture and toughening.</li> <li> Overview of the main technologies used for polymer processing: extrusion; compression moulding; injection moulding; blow moulding; and thermoforming.</li> <li> Introduction to fibre reinforced polymer composites with emphasis on stiffness and strength properties and an overview of the common materials and manufacturing techniques.</li></ul>  This unit aims to introduce Polymer Materials Science and Engineering MSc students to the science underpinning the synthesis, characterisation and properties of polymers and composites.  A greater depth of the learning outcomes will be covered in the following sections:Knowledge and understandingIntellectual skillsPractical skillsTransferable skills and personal qualities <ul> <li> Describe the basic structures, compositions, properties and uses of common polymers.</li> <li> Describe common polymerisation methods, including synthesis of linear & non-linear polymers.</li> <li> Describe the principles behind, and the uses of, common techniques used for polymer characterisation.</li> <li> Describe the structure-property-performance relationships of a range of polymers and polymer composites.</li> <li> Describe the principles behind, and the applications of, common polymer and polymer composites processing methods.</li></ul><div>  </div> <ul> <li> Explain the structure of polymers and discuss polymer synthesis reactions.</li> <li> Apply simple models to predict and explain various properties of polymers and composites.</li> <li> Explain how the properties of polymers and polymer composites depend upon their molecular and physical structures.</li> <li> Identify appropriate techniques for the analysis of polymers.</li></ul><div>  </div> <ul> <li> Analyse the results from other polymer testing experiments and link them to their physical properties.</li> <li> Explain why some polymers have unique physical properties. </li></ul> <ul> <li> Solve problems utilising appropriate numerical skills, chemical knowledge and algebraic methods.</li> <li> Assess results critically and apply them in other areas of studies.</li> <li> Interpret results reliably and effectively in their research work.</li></ul> <div> Lectures, group tutorials (problem sessions), recommended textbooks, web resources, past exam papers, electronic supporting information (Blackboard). </div>  1 Written exam 70% 2 Written assignment (inc essay) 30% Feedback given verbally and written. N <ul> <li> R.J. Young and P.A. Lovell, Introduction to Polymers: 3rd Edition, CRC Press, 2011 or 2nd Edition, CRC Press, 1991</li> <li> G. Odian, Principles of Polymerisation, all editions</li> <li> J.M.G. Cowie, Polymers: Chemistry and Physics of Modern Materials, all editions</li> <li> M. Gilbert, Brydson's Plastics Materials, Eighth Edition</li> <li> M.P. Stevens, Polymer Chemistry: An Introduction, all editions</li> <li> L.H. Sperling, Introduction to Physical Polymer Science, all editions</li> <li> Introduction to Composite Materials, D. Hull, T.W. Clyne. Cambridge Univ. Press, 1996.</li> <li> Manufacturing Processes for Advanced Composites, F.C. Campbell, Elsevier, 2004.</li> <li> Liquid Moulding Technologies, C.D. Rudd, Woodhead, 1997.</li> <li> Processing of Composites R.S. Dave¿, A.C. Loos (editors), 2000.</li></ul>  Lectures 30 0 120