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MECH_ENG 395: Characterization of materials


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Description

ME 395/495 CHARACTERIZATION OF MATERIALS

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this course is to develop broad knowledge of the most commonly used techniques for characterizing soft and hard materials, with a strong focus on microscopy techniques. This is a lecture-only class, with no lab sections or hands-on training on instrument operation.

 

Target audience

Senior undergraduate students and graduate students in ME, ChE, BME, ECE. (MSE offers more in-depth electron microscopy and x-ray classes)

Preparation

  • Basic math: trigonometry; matrix calculation; real and imaginary numbers
  • Basic physics and chemistry: nature of waves; characteristics of electrons and photons; nature of atom and chemical bonding
  • Basic materials science: general atomistic and molecular structures of polymers, metals, and ceramics; lattice and grain structures; defects in crystalline materials

Schedule

  1. Introduction to materials characterization (week 1)
  2. Sample preparation (week 1)
  3. Optical microscopy (week 2)
  4. Scanning electron microscopy (week 3-4)
  5. Focused ion beam (week 5)
  6. Transmission electron microscopy (week 6-7)
  7. X-ray techniques (week 8-9)
  8. Other characterization techniques (week 10)