MTE4592 - Advanced ceramics and applications

Overview

The first part of this unit will focus on structural ceramics including zirconium oxides, silicon nitride, sialons, silicon carbide and ceramic particulate and fibre reinforced composites, their processing and applications. The crystal structures of the different materials and their properties will be correlated. Examples include cutting tools, wear parts and advanced refractories. The second part of the unit will introduce functional ceramics, predominantly those used in electrical or electronic applications, their microstructure and nanostructure. Examples include thermistors, varistors, capacitors, multi-layer substrates, piezoelectric and electro-optic transducers, and gas sensors.

Requisites

Prerequisite

Notes

This unit is not offered in 2025.

Learning outcomes

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

Develop a knowledge of the fabrication methods, property measurements, sintering and microstructure of a range of advanced ceramics and an understanding of how these factors affect the mechanical, physical and electrical properties of the materials.

Develop an understanding of the different classes of functional ceramics used for example as electrical, optical, wear-resistant and gas sensor materials.

Develop an understanding of the criteria for selection of advanced ceramics for various applications. An analysis of the reason(s) for the selection of a particular material for a particular application.

Develop a detailed practical appreciation of the fabrication and testing of several structural and functional ceramics.

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.

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 of 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.

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.