Overview

This unit will begin by exploring the structure of materials on the atomic scale. The arrangements of atoms within solids will be explored in detail, with a focus on crystalline materials. The topic of crystallography will be formally explored, including crystal structures, lattices, motifs, symmetry elements and the stereographic projection. … For more content click the Read More button below.

Requisites

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Assoc Professor Timothy Scott

Unit Coordinator(s)

Assoc Professor Timothy Scott

Notes

This unit is not offered in 2021.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1.

determine the definitive characteristics of the key classes of materials, recognise common prototype  structures for metallic, ionic and ceramic crystals, and possess an understanding of the factors influencing the development of these structures

2.

display knowledge of elementary crystallography, including crystal lattices, crystal structures, elements of symmetry and their representation

3.

understand the geometry and crystallography of common crystal defects, and their effects on material properties

4.

understand the derivation of binary and ternary alloy phase diagrams from the laws of thermodynamics, based on the concept of Gibbs free energy

5.

Use a binary phase diagram to quantitatively describe equilibrium states and understand the microstructures to be expected for various binary material systems exhibiting, in particular complete solid solubility, eutectic, eutectoid, and peritectic reactions

6.

use basic laboratory skills to study the microstructure of materials, be able to work effectively within a team in carrying out laboratory work, be able to keep appropriate laboratory records and develop skills to communicate the results and conclusions of practical work.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Assessment summary

Continuous assessment: 50%

Final assessment: 50%

This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment

1 - Laboratory work
2 - Assignment
3 - Final assessment

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Applied sessions
Laboratories
Lectures

Workload requirements

Workload

Other unit costs

Costs are indicative and subject to change.

Protective clothing and equipment, at your own cost:

  • Laboratory coat - approximately $35 to $50
  • Safety glasses - approximately $8, or prescription safety glasses (if required) - approximately $350
  • Laboratory-appropriate enclosed footwear (non-porous material, equipped with non-absorbent, slip-resistant soles)

Availability in areas of study

Specialisation:
Materials science (Pre-2020)