Materials Science and Engineering BEng

Core modules:

Introduction to Materials Chemistry

This module begins with the electronic structure of atoms and uses this to introduce the chemistry of the periodic table. Crystal chemistry and crystal structures are then considered, starting with simple metals and then moving to ionic bonding and structures before considering glasses. The second half of the module introduces organic and polymer chemistry. Functional group chemistry and molecular shape are discussed using simple models of bonding. We emphasise the importance of macromolecules, together with the larger-scale shape of polymers. We discuss polymer synthesis and its relation to polymer properties in some selected cases. This includes discussion of natural and biopolymers.

20 credits

Introduction to Mechanical Properties and Structural Materials

The basic concepts of stress, strain and moduli are introduced. The links between atomic bonding and the mechanical properties of all the main classes of materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, natural materials and composites) are then explored. Modes of failure, stress concentrations, dislocations, ductility and creep are also covered. The linkages between materials properties and microstructures of materials are investigated with an emphasis on links between processing, microstructure and the mechanical properties of metals

20 credits

Mathematics (Materials)

This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at Levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the Level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department. The module is delivered via online lectures, reinforced with weekly interactive problem classes.

20 credits

Biomaterials I

This module introduces the human body from an engineering perspective; looking at it as a structure, a mechanism and a sensor. It then introduces both natural and replacement biomaterials discussing properties in relation to function using Ashby charts. Finally, the course discusses lessons that can be learnt from biomaterials by materials engineers in general (biomimetics). 

10 credits

Sustainability and the Materials Lifecycle

The production of all manufactured goods involves the use of materials and will have some environmental impact. For example, energy is used at all stages from extraction of the raw materials through to final manufacture of the product and possibly during use of the product. Through specific materials-based examples this course will introduce students to the energy requirements of different processing routes and products along with some of the complex issues involved in the recycling and re-processing of materials and life-cycle analysis.

10 credits

Digital Skills for Materials

The course is designed to teach you how to interpret, analyse and present data using modern computational tools (such as Excel and MATLAB). You will learn how to use these packages to write algorithms for data analysis allowing you to show trends and conclusions drawn from the data. 

The course is taught through working on set examples that involve the analysing and processing of data in order to present the results with graphs and tables. This allows you to learn the software in a practical manner gaining familiarity and confidence to use in other areas of your undergraduate course (both lectures and practicals).

10 credits

Introduction to Materials Properties

This unit considers materials properties as the link between what is done to a material and how the material responds and hence discusses linking properties to devices and structures. In particular: i) Magnetic Materials: Basics of magnetism; effect of magnetic fields on materials. Classification of magnetic materials (dia-, para-, ferro-, antiferro- and ferri-magnetic). ii) Electrical Materials: Conductors, insulators, field gradient, resistivity. Insulators, semi-conductors, metals, mixed conductors and solid electrolytes. iii) Optical Materials: Optical absorption and emission. Bulbs, fluorescent lamps and phosphors. Optical fibres for light, UV, IR. Transparent and translucent materials.

10 credits

Introduction to Nanoscience and Nanomaterials

This module will begin by considering scaling relations in the macro and nano worlds. Examples of nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, nanotubes and nanocomposite bulk materials will be discussed. The use of nanomaterials in novel systems and devices arising from the development of nanomaterials and technology will be considered. Ethical, societal and environmental issues will be discussed.

10 credits

Kinetics, Thermodynamics and Phase Diagrams

This module introduces basic ideas of thermodynamics and kinetics and their respective roles in determining the behaviour of gases, liquids and solids. Empirical gas laws are introduced leading to the concept of the ideal gas and the ideal gas equation of state and progressing to more realistic gas equations of state. Basic thermodynamic concepts are covered such as work, heat, internal energy, specific heat, enthalpy, entropy and free energy. Rate laws, rate constants, reaction orders and the effects of temperature on reaction rates are discussed. Equilibrium binary phase diagrams of important metals are introduced.

10 credits

Global Engineering Challenge Week

The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.

*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.

Core modules:

Industrial Materials Processing

This course provides a broad overview of the main industrial processing and manufacturing routes for metallic, glass, ceramic and polymeric materials and components. Important engineering principles such as viscosity, heat transfer and fluid flow will be introduced where relevant and a number of case studies will be used in order to highlight the equipment, technology and philosophy behind the choice of process and manufacturing route for these materials.

20 credits

Microstructure and Thermodynamics of Materials

This course will consider the thermodynamics of materials, emphasising the free energies of mixtures and solutions and their relation to phase diagrams, particularly eutectics. It will then consider how the microstructure of a range of materials (including metals and metallic alloys, ceramics and selected polymers) and thus their mechanical, physical and chemical properties are influenced by composition and phase constitution and by mechanical processing and/or heat treatment. Characterisation methods such as SEM, TEM and optical microscopy will be introduced, including discussions of specimen preparation and interpretation of images.

20 credits

Deformation and Failure of Materials

This course describes the plastic deformation of metals, polymers and glasses indicating the fundamental mechanisms that give rise to sample strain in response to applied stress or arising from thermally induced effects. The deformation mechanisms are related to microstructure and processing and the implications for design considered. 

10 credits

Functional Materials

This course is concerned with the physical properties of materials, other than mechanical, and their functions. The application of wave mechanics, the effects of structural anisotropy, and the response of systems to AC electric fields are all used in the analysis of thermal, electrical, electronic, magnetic and optical properties of materials. Particular materials applications based on these properties are discussed including electronic materials and pn junctions, magnetic materials and data storage media, dielectric materials including capacitors, piezo- and pyro-electrics, and optical materials for imaging.

10 credits

Heat Transfer and Diffusion

This module introduces students to diffusion and heat transfer. In the diffusion part topics covered in atomic motion, the diffusion constant, Fick's laws and the mechanisms of atomic transport in the bulk and at the surface of materials. There is also discussion of the role of diffusion in the evolution of materials, their growth and crystallisation. The heat transfer part of the course is intended to develop an understanding of the basic physics of conductive, convective and radiative heat transfer and its relevance to materials processing. To this end, the course concentrates on 'simple' analytic approaches to heat transfer problems.

10 credits

Materials Selection and Fracture Mechanics

The first half of the course aims to build a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationship between materials selection, materials processing, product design and product performance in order to develop a holistic approach to optimum selection of materials for engineering and industrial applications. Topics examined include methods of materials and process selection through an applied open-ended project.This module also introduces students to fracture mechanics. In the fracture mechanics topics covered in some detail include linear elastic fracture mechanics, cyclic fatigue, stress corrosion and failure prediction. A brief introduction to elastic-plastic fracture mechanics is also included.

10 credits

Mathematics II (Materials)

This module is part of a series of second-level modules designed for the particular group of engineers shown in brackets in the module title. Each module consolidates previous mathematical knowledge and develops new mathematical techniques relevant to the particular engineering discipline.

10 credits

Structure of Solid Materials

Following on from MAT1610 this course introduces the topics of crystallography/solid state chemistry (Part A) and X-ray diffraction (Part B) on 2nd-year level of detail and complexity using international notations and classifications, e.g. concepts of unit cells, Bravais lattices, point groups and space groups.

Part A: Symmetry of crystals and the relation to physical properties is the focus of this part, followed by selected mineral and alloy phases which will be used as examples to demonstrate the new concepts.

Part B: Here the focus is on the practice and application of X-ray crystallography, particularly powder diffraction techniques, for the purpose of determining unknown crystal phases.

The course aims to provide the necessary background to understand the crystal structure of materials, demonstrate the link between the symmetry of the crystal structure and crystal properties and show the application of X-ray methods to the determination of crystal structure.

10 credits

Engineering - You're Hired

The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project. The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.

Optional modules:

Biology and Chemistry of Living Systems II

This course expands the range of biological systems covered that are core to the Cell and Human Biology element of the Biomaterials and Bioengineering courses. The following are included: the extracellular matrix; cell adhesion and spreading; cell communication and signalling; cytokines and HIV: complement activation and development of new biomaterials to improve biocompatibility; toxicity and toxicology including information on mutagenic effects, teratomas, carcinogens and neurotoxicity; classification of tumours, spread of tumours and clinical relevance. Two practical classes cover hands-on in vitro cell culture and toxicity testing of biomaterials. This unit aims to: investigate the extracellular matrix and its many functions; Investigate cell adhesion and spreading and how they are influenced by the physico-chemical characteristics of the underlying substrata; Provide an introduction to cell communication and cell-signalling, including information on hormones, local mediators, contact-dependent signalling molecules, and neurotransmitters; Explore the biological defences available at the cellular and systems level to injury, infection and materials; Provide a detailed knowledge of toxicity and toxicology, including information on mutagenic effects, teratomas, carcinogens and neurotoxicity.

10 credits

Biomaterials II

This course will explore the range of materials, both synthetic and natural, that can be used as implants in the human body, from a materials science perspective. This course will highlight the materials properties of implant materials, and will give an overview of possible host responses to the implant materials. Additionally, both physical and chemical routes to reduce the host response will be discussed. Case studies of hard and soft tissue implants will be discussed. Finally, the course will highlight the use of artificial organs. 

10 credits

Materials and Energy

This unit introduces aspects of the generation and utilisation of energy and its environmental consequences with particular emphasis on materials-related topics. The implications of energy usage for the climate along with electricity transmission and storage are reviewed and you will undertake a review of your personal carbon footprint.  Green technologies for electricity generation including renewables (wind, water, solar, geothermal) and nuclear are reviewed. Battery systems and fuel cells are covered, together with the environmental considerations concerning CO2 emissions, in addition to examples of current industrial CO2 emissions and methods for its sequestration.

10 credits

Perspectives in Materials Research

This module aims to provide students with access to the real and current research taking place in the materials community from an academic/industrial viewpoint. Content will focus on demonstrating how particular core material feeds into research areas and how this drives future technological solutions. The students will also learn about the concepts of selling research ideas and the skills of explaining concepts succinctly in order to engage others to buy into their research field.

10 credits

Materials Development Group Project

This module aims to familiarise you with current research and development taking place in the materials community from both an academic and an industrial viewpoint. The content will focus on demonstrating how materials research and development is driven by technological need and can drive future technological solutions. Via a group project you will investigate how this interaction between materials developments and technological need has impacted and continues to impact a specific engineering solution.

10 credits

Core modules:

Literature Survey and Project

Students undertake a project chosen from a list drawn up so that they are able to pursue their own interests related to course choices. The project is an original research investigation carried out individually under the supervision of one or more members of the academic staff. Students carry out a Literature Survey involving the reading of original papers and review articles from the scientific literature. Most projects involve extensive laboratory work although some may be based primarily on a survey of the published literature or computational studies. Each student spends about 1.5 days per week for 30 weeks, most of which is not specifically timetabled, on this work. The assessment of the project includes an Interim and Final Report along with a presentation on the work to staff and other students. Conduct throughout the project is also assessed.

30 credits

Accounting and Law for Engineers

The module is designed to introduce engineering students to key areas of accounting and legal risk that engineers should be aware of in their working environment. The module will draw directly on practical issues of budgeting, assessing financial risks and making financial decisions in the context of engineering projects and/or product development. At the same time, the module will develop students' understanding of the legal aspects of entering into contracts for the development and delivery of engineering projects and products, and enhance their awareness of environmental regulation, liability for negligence, intellectual property rights and the importance of data protection. Through a series of parallel running lectures in the two disciplines, the module will provide a working knowledge of the two areas and how they impinge on engineering practice.

10 credits

Introduction to Finite Element Modelling

Finite Element Modelling (FEM) is a powerful tool used by companies in materials and device modelling providing a cheap and effective route to new and improved processes and devices. This course will introduce you to the basic concepts of materials modelling and its different fields of application using state of the art software used by companies and research groups.

10 credits

Surface Degradation and Protection

This course considers the processes that lead to chemical and mechanical degradation of the surfaces of materials and this can be controlled by a range of surface engineering techniques. In the first part of the course the focus will be to understand the process of electrochemical corrosion of metals and metal oxides, and how electrochemical passivation can be used to prevent corrosion. The use of tools such as Ellingham and Pourbaix diagrams in the prediction of corrosion will be explored, in addition to developing an understanding of the interlinked effects of stress and corrosion on materials. The second part of the course focuses on the role of wear and friction on the degradation of materials, and how these effects can be minimised, for example, by design.

10 credits

Industrial Management

This module will introduce the concepts of quality management to students.  The students will learn about the current UK regulations with quality management for engineering companies.  They will also learn about the purpose of quality management.  The students will be given real life examples of quality management in practice.  They will demonstrate their understanding of the subject by developing an example quality management document for a fictitious company.  This will involve identifying the key stakeholders in terms of supply, customers, regulators etc.  This analysis will be used to review future directions of the company.

10 credits

Optional modules:

Advanced Ceramics

This unit covers inorganic and functional materials building on earlier courses in years one and two. The course will focus on materials processing, crystal and defect chemistry, electrical transport, industrial application requirements and assessment of materials development strategies.

10 credits

Advanced Functional Materials

This unit is concerned with three groups of inorganic and organic materials, all three are important for their functional applications; electroceramics, liquid crystals and magnetic materials.. The functional materials topics build on courses delivered at first and second year level and provide a more in-depth presentation of specific materials properties and their industrial applications. .

10 credits

Advanced Materials Manufacturing

This unit introduces key concepts with regards to Materials 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution. Modelling and simulation is a key enabling technology within Aerospace Technology Institute's strategy to reach zero carbon emissions by 2050. Modelling allows for the rapid insertion of new materials and manufacturing processes, in addition to the improved understanding and optimisation of current methods.

This unit aims to provide knowledge and experience of modelling tools that will underpin the UK's future advanced materials manufacturing base and obtain knowledge and experience of applying process modelling to solve industrial problems.  

10 credits

Composite Materials and Micromechanics

This module starts with an introduction to the different types of composite materials that either exist in nature or are man-made. Reinforcing theories are discussed as are the strengths and weaknesses of composite materials. The aim is to acquaint students with the constituents of composite materials, fibres and matrices. Running parallel to this is an examination of composite materials from a micromechanics point of view. Fibre statistics, classical laminate theory and shear lag theory (and more) are used to predict and understand the properties of composites. A series of problem classes are used to help students practise using the equations and interpreting the output.

10 credits

Glasses

The materials science and technology of glasses. The nature of amorphous glass structures for silicates, borates and phosphates is examined in some detail, along with the processes required to produce them. The mechanical properties of glasses and ways to improve them are detailed. 

10 credits

Materials for Biological Applications

This module will explore contemporary biomaterials science and will focus on state of the art production methods for biomaterials manufacture. We will look at: rapid prototyping techniques for biomaterials manufacture, e.g. stereolithography, plasma coating techniques, electrospinning and fibres, foams for scaffolds, metal foams, metal coatings, ceramics processing/analysis, bioactive glasses and bioprinting. For all these, examples of recent literature will be used. The module will examine how the properties of the materials determine it's function and which processing techniques are optimum for specific applications, with a focus on implant materials and tissue engineering scaffolds. 

10 credits

Metals

This course builds on the fundamental physical metallurgy of alloy steels, stainless steels, aluminium and titanium alloys to demonstrate the purpose and effect of alloying and its implications for the processing, microstructure and performance of structural aerospace components. The aim is to provide insight into the design and manufacture of steels for structural aerospace applications. Topics covered will include physical metallurgy, secondary processing, heat treatment, machining, fabrication and finishing of the main classes of alloy employed, as well as relationships between processing, microstructure and performance, and their implication for alloy design. The fundamental characteristics of aluminium, magnesium and titanium to demonstrate the purpose and effects of alloying and its implications for processing, properties and applications will also be discussed. It aims to provide an overview of the basic characteristics, processing, structure, properties and applications of engineering light metals and alloys. Applications and case studies have a bias towards the automotive and aerospace industries.

10 credits

Nuclear Science, Engineering and Technology

This unit is designed to introduce key principles of nuclear science, engineering and technology, in the context of applications, including:

Energy from nuclear reactions
Diagnostics and therapy in medicine
Radioactive waste treatment and disposal
Nuclear defence and non-proliferation
Radiation protection

These topics will be studied in relation to their socio-economic and environmental impact. The module will be taught primarily through lectures and inquiry-based case studies, with contribution from external experts.

The aims of this module are to develop:

An understanding of the structure of the atomic nucleus and radioactive decay processes
A holistic understanding of the nuclear fuel cycle
An understanding of the nuclear reactor systems and power generation
An understanding of materials design and performance parameters for nuclear applications

10 credits