MS4312 Characterization of Advanced Materials

This course is structured to provide an insight into the various tools available for advanced physical examination of engineering materials. Topics covered include thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, and optical, scanning, transmission and scanning transmission electron microscopies as well as various spectroscopic techniques.

Prerequisite

MS3202 or consent of instructor

Lecture Hours

3

Lab Hours

2

Course Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the course students will be able to:

• Understand the basic operational principles of thermal analysis, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction techniques and basics of spectroscopy.
• Realize the capabilities and limitations of these materials characterization methods.
• Gain first-hand experience on sample preparation and instrument operation.
• Develop the skills to obtain qualitative and quantitative data from various techniques through the development of a laboratory project.
• Analyze the data outcome of the use of the techniques and recognize how that data could aid material selection for a given application, provide quality evaluation or insight of materials properties.
• Appreciate the choice of using appropriate techniques including complimentary methods in materials evaluation.
• Understand how other scientists and engineers use the techniques through a literature review (journal articles presented in class).