Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module adds to the knowledge obtained in:
• Calculus
• Fundamental Chemical Engineering and Thermodynamics or Introduction to Mechanics and Thermodynamics.

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

This course provides an introduction to material science, focusing on the fundamental behavior and properties of common engineering materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Students will gain insight into how materials respond to mechanical, thermal, and environmental stresses, and how their microstructure influences performance. The course also provides a framework for selecting appropriate materials for engineering applications based on mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. Students will learn to apply calculations and material properties to solve engineering problems.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed the module should be able to

• Explain the fundamental structure and properties of metals, polymers, ceramics and composites
• Account for the selection of materials
• Account for methods for material processing
• Explain the fundamental mechanisms in corrosion
• Describe material testing and the applicability of results gained from testing
• Account for the basic principles of Life Cycle Assessment of materials

Skills

• Carry out relevant calculations for assessment of materials and their behaviour
• Carry out a material selection for a given application
• Select proper testing methods to determine relevant material properties
• Evaluate materials based on their properties
• Select suitable processing methods

Competences

• Evaluate the properties and applicability of a given material for engineering purposes
• Assess whether a material is likely to degrade chemically or mechanically in a specific environment, and if so, choose a suitable surface treatment or an alternative material.

Type of instruction

Lectures, workshops and theoretical exercises.

Extent and expected workload

150 hours

Exam

Exams

Name of exam	Material Science
Type of exam	Written or oral exam
ECTS	5
Permitted aids	With certain aids: Please refer to the exam schedule.
Assessment	7-point grading scale
Type of grading	Internal examination
Criteria of assessment	The criteria of assessment are stated in the Examination Policies and Procedures