MTE3104 · Electronic and photonic materials

Overview

This unit will focus on the ‘smart’ functional roles of the materials in devices which depend on their electrical and optical properties. Examples of such devices covered are pn junction rectifiers, bipolar junction transistors, field-effect transistors (FET), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), solar cells, light-emitting diodes (LED), optical fibres and the Peltier cooler. The functional materials will be studied at the microscopic (atomic and/or molecular) level in order to gain an understanding of the device operation. The particular focus of this unit is on the electronic properties of materials (metals, semiconductors and insulators) based on their energy band structures. The classical and wave-mechanical models of metals are introduced along with the Fermi energy, density of states, forbidden band and Brillouin zones, to describe the behaviour of free electrons in solids. Semiconductor fabrication processes such as single crystal growth, film deposition and microlithography will also be introduced briefly.

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

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50%

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 conduction processes in metals, alloys, semiconductors and insulators, with regard to the electronic band structure of these materials.
2. Describe the working principles of selected semiconductor devices, including PN junction diodes, transistors, solar cells, light-emitting diodes and the Peltier cooler.
3. Describe the interaction between photons and various classes of materials and thereby describe the optical properties of those materials.
4. Apply critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills to scenarios that involve electrically and optically active materials.
5. Use basic laboratory skills to study polymeric 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.