Plastics Characterization

Recommended Prerequisites

Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics at universitary level

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes will take place using powerpoint material, which may be supplemented  by videos related to the techniques presented. In each class, one or more techniques will be explained and the theoretical  concepts underlying their operation will be presented, as well as their main applicationsand the difficulties involved. The practical classes will consist of demonstrations of the operation of the equipment, with students having the opportunity to follow an analysis with explanation about the preparation of the sample and the output of the analysis. 

Learning Outcomes

The course aims to introduce students to the main techniques used in the characterization of plastics. The operation principle of each technique, major applications, and major limitations will be presented. Techniques for evaluating chemical structure, thermal and mechanical properties, which are essential in the context of plastics production, will be discussed. Morphological properties (surface and bulk) will be also emphasized. Students will have the opportunity to learn a set of techniques widely used in the characterization of plastics. This will allow them to broaden their horizons and apply the concepts learned in classes to professional realities. The techniques discussed can be applied not only in the characterization of materials per se, but also in terms of quality control.  

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

The techniques that will be studied in the course are listed below:

- Infrared spectrsocopy with Fourier transform (FTIR)

- Nuclear magnetic ressonance spectroscopy (NMR)

- Size exclusion chromatography (SEC)

- Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)

- Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)

- Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA)

- X-ray diffraction (XRD)

- Rheology

- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

- Mechanical properties (tensile, compression)

All the characterization techniques will be presented in terms of their operation principles, applications and limitations. 

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Synthesis work: 100.0%

Bibliography

Publicações selecionadas consoante as técnicas a abordar e indicada pelo docente no final de cada módulo. / Supporting bibliographic material selected according with the techniques and indicated by the professor in the end of each module.