MTE2101 - Atomic-scale structure of materials

Overview

This unit will explore the structure of materials on the atomic scale and the techniques used to characterise this structure. 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. There will also be an introduction to defects in crystalline materials, including vacancies, interstitials, dislocations and grain boundaries. The unit will then go on to explore methods for studying such structures and features, discussing diffraction of X‐Rays, electrons and light and imaging techniques which underpin the operation of microscopes used to study atomic structure.

Offerings

S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS

Requisites

Prohibition

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Professor Kiyonori Suzuki

Unit Coordinator(s)

Professor Kiyonori Suzuki

Learning outcomes

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

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.

Describe fundamental concepts in elementary crystallography, including crystal lattices and the concept of motif, crystal structures, elements of symmetry and their representation, atom packings, lattice planes and directions.

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

Describe how waves (including light, X-rays, neutrons and electrons) interact with materials leading to diffraction and other effects.

Interpret results of basic characterisation techniques which include optical microscopy, XRD, TEM and describe more techniques which can be used to characterise the structure of materials at an atomic or microscopic scale.

Use basic laboratory skills to study the atomic-scale structure 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

Problem-based learning

Active learning

Assessment summary

Continuous assessment: 50%
Final assessment: 50%

This unit contains threshold 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 - Assignment

2 - Laboratories

3 - Quiz

4 - Final assessment

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories

Practical activities

Workshops

Workload requirements

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Learning resources

Required resources

Other unit costs

The following item is mandatory for practical aspects of the unit and should be purchased at your own cost as you will be reusing them throughout your course.

Calculator

Protective clothing and equipment:
• 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)

Costs are indicative only.

Availability in areas of study

E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Materials engineering