MTE2103 · Mechanical properties of materials

Overview

This unit will deal with elastic, plastic and fracture behaviour of solid materials. Some basic mechanics will be introduced, including descriptions of the stress and strain distributions in axial and torsional loading of bars and bending of beams. Elastic properties, including Young’s Modulus and Poisson ratio, will be introduced and linked to the structures of various types of materials (metals, polymers, and composites). Plastic deformation will explore the importance of dislocations in yielding, and deformation via twinning will also be introduced. In both cases, there will be significant attention to how deformation can be prevented and materials can be strengthened. Finally, the unit will cover failure of materials via some selected mechanisms, including brittle fracture and fatigue.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Materials engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Materials engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

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 details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the elastic properties of a range of different material classes in the context of the structure and bonding types.
2. Describe how plastic deformation of metallic materials proceeds by the process of slip, and how the motion of dislocations can be impeded by structural defects.
3. Discern a range of failure mechanisms and be aware of the factors which affect ductile versus brittle behaviour.
4. Analyse simple engineering failures and formulate possible remedies including strengthening and toughening mechanisms.
5. Use basic laboratory skills to study the mechanical properties 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.

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.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.