Advanced Materials Characterisation
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MMME4041 | Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering | 4 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- MMME4041
- School
- Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The module introduces a range of solid-state analytical techniques for morphological investigations, with emphasis on: Microscopy (topography) diffractometry (structure) & spectroscopy (chemistry) & an overview of techniques for thermal analysis (phase change) and functional property measurement (including mechanical testing). Consideration will be given to the operation of a range of analytical instrumentation and the interpretation of the signals generated, illustrated with case studies of typical materials engineering investigations. Detailed content underpinning the module includes particle / material interactions & wave / material interactions the experimental process, crystallography, defects, reciprocal space & diffraction. Consideration is given to instrumentation, vacuum systems, electron sources and detectors etc and described with reference to the techniques of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). An overview of related surface analysis techniques and ion beam techniques is provided. Aspects of sample preparation, including FIB milling are also covered.
Target Students
Engineering (Materials) Masters students and Final Year Undergraduate students who wish to acquire understanding of a range of analytical techniques for materials characterisation. PhD students are also welcome to attend.
Assessment
- 30% Coursework 1: Lab methodology report
- 30% Coursework 2: Set Questions
- 40% Coursework 3: Camera ready conference paper (4 pages)
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
The aim of this module is to introduce students to a variety of analytical techniques for materials characterisation. Emphasis is given to techniques for imaging, structural characterisation and chemical analysis.Learning Outcomes
LO1 - Select an appropriate combination of complementary materials characterisation techniques for the investigation of a variety of technological problems, including structural materials, functional materials, biomedical materials and nanostructured materials. (Knowledge, comprehension and application).
LO2 - Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental physical principles underpinning a range of materials characterisation techniques. (Knowledge and comprehension).
LO3 - Demonstrate understanding of the principles of operation a range of materials characterisation techniques. (Knowledge and comprehension).