Non-Metallic Materials

Recommended Prerequisites

Structure and Properties of Matter.

Teaching Methods

The concepts of non-metallic engineering materials are taught in teoretical lectures. Discussion about its importance for the future Mechanical Engineer is stimulated. TP classes reinforce these concepts by giving particular emphasis to structure-properties-application relationship. Classes will be always supported by examples of equipment manufacturing with major media impact. In all classes, proactive stances by the students is encouraged, necessary for skills acquisition.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of the different materials used in engineering is one of the main specific skills  required for a mechanical engineer. In order to be able to intervene in the production and processing of materials as in the conception and development of engineering projects, the mechanical engineer must have comprehensive knowledge not only about the nature of the different types of materials, but also a precise and quantitative knowledge of the properties of each material. The discipline of Non-Metallic Materials aims to provide expertise on structure / properties / processing / performance of non metallic materials emphasizing the technological and economic aspects that should govern its application in engineering components.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Part I - Ceramics and glass

1. Ceramics and traditional techniques

1.1. Powders (size, shape and distribution structure (4S))

1.2. Conformation (liquid and solid)

1.3. Introduction to sintering. Sintering in solid and liquid phase

1.4. Properties. Weibull modulus

1.5 . Applications of ceramic materials

2. Glasses

2.1. Chemical composition

2.2. Processing

Part II - Polymeric Materials

1. Introduction to polymers

2. Structure: crystalline and amorphous

3. Transition temperature (melting and glass)

4. Types of polymers (biopolymers, plastics, elastomers and fibers).

4.1 Types of plastics: thermoplastics, thermosets

5. Relationship between structure and properties

6. Mechanical behavior

7. Transformation processes of polymers.

Part III. Composite Materials

1. Notion of composite.

2. Fibers for reinforcement

3. Polymer matrix composites

4. Metal matrix composites

5. Ceramic matrix composites

6. Mechanical properties of composite materials

7. Understanding composite processing.

Head Lecturer(s)

Ana Paula da Fonseca Piedade

Assessment Methods

Continuous assessment
Mini Tests: 40.0%
Frequency: 60.0%

Final assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

W.F. Smith, Princípios de Ciência e Engenharia dos Materiais, McGraw-Hill, 1998.

W.D. Callister and D.G. Rethwisch, Materials Science and Engineering: An introduction, Wiley, Edição 9E, 2016.