Introduction to Materials (F1098)
Introduction to Materials
Module F1098
Module details for 2022/23.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
One of the main justifications for investment in chemistry over the last century has been the development of new materials. The very rapid growth in polymers, glasses, ceramics and alloys has fuelled growth in every area of technology, and materials science has emerged as a separate discipline over the last 50 years.
The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to materials in terms of their atomic, molecular and electronic structures and how these influence bulk properties. About half of the module will focus on solid materials in general. This will concentrate on the three principal types of bonding for perfect solids and their effect on mechanical and electrical properties. The effects of imperfections will be discussed with special reference to defects and alloys. The other half of the module will focus specifically on organic materials, particularly polymers, which are by far the largest volume products of the chemical industry. The usefulness of the science will be emphasised by reference to contemporary materials, including nanoscience.
Module learning outcomes
Understand the structures of crystals and materials and their properties
Ability to use modern instrumentation to be able to identify metal and polymer materials
Be able to describe methods to produce common polymers
Demonstrate an understanding of how polymer structure can influence their chemical and/or physical properties
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 1 Assessment | 60.00% |
| Coursework | 40.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Report | T1 Week 11 | 75.00% |
| Problem Set | T1 Week 9 | 25.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 00111001110 |
| Autumn Semester | Laboratory | 4 hours | 00000001110 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Qiao Chen
Assess convenor
/profiles/213956
Dr Barnaby Greenland
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/427963
Ms Kristy Flowers
Convenor
/profiles/365014
Mr Chris Baker
Convenor
/profiles/579932
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