MODULE SPECIFICATION FORM
Module Title:
Composite Materials
Level:
M (7)
1 or 2
With effect
from:
Module code:
(if known)
ENGM69
Semester(s) in which to be
offered
Existing/New:
New
Title of module being replaced (if any):
Engineering
Originating Subject:
Module duration
(contact
hours/directed/privat
e study:
60 hrs contact
30 hrs directed
study
110 hrs private
study
Module Leader:
20
Credit
Value:
January
2010
N/A
Joe Tatler
Status: core/option/elective (identify
programme where appropriate):
Core
Percentage taught by Subjects other than originating Subject (please name other
Subjects):
Programme(s) in which to be
offered:
Pre-requisites per programme
(between levels):
Co-requisites per
programme (within a
level):
MSc in Manufacturing
Module Aims:
To provide students with a knowledge of the properties, processing and applications of
composite materials and the development of new composites, in particular
1. The history of and need for composite materials;
2. Methods for manufacture of reinforcing materials;
3. Methods for designing with, and manufacture, of composities with metallic, ceramic and
polymeric matrices;
4. Mechanical and physical properties of composites; the industrial application of
composites;
5. Appropriation of a composite material for a particular engineering application and
development of composites.
Expected Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding:
On completion of this module, the student should be able to:
1. Design composite materials with specific properties;
2. Interrelate design considerations with both manufacturing processes and ultimate
performance;
3.Justify the use of a composite material for a particular application and new development of
composites;
4. Critically assess the significance of aspects of composite development in a wider materials
context;
5. Apply methods for determining mechanical properties of composites to other suitable
materials.
Transferable/Key Skills and other attributes
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Communication
ICT Technologies
Time management and organisation
Interpersonal skills
Problem solving
Information handling including numeracy
Assessment:
Assessment One: An individually prepared critique of the use of composite materials in complex
structure situations.
Assessment Two: A written examination which assesses the capability of knowledge and
application of the principles, concepts and limitations of various composite materials.
Assessment
Learning
Outcomes to
be met
Type of
assessment
Weighting
Assessment
1
1,3,4,5
In course
assessment
50%
Assessment
2
2,3,4,5
Written
examination
50%
Duration
(if exam)
Word count or
equivalent if
appropriate
2000 words
2 hours
Learning and Teaching Strategies:
The module will be delivered through detailed presentations combined with interactive sessions
to enhance students’ learning. The learning experience will be further supported by tutorials and
self study work.
Syllabus outline:
 Introduction: The history, classification, definitions and scope of composite materials.
 Polymer Matrix Composites: Fibres, matrices and interfacial/interphasial effects. Mechanics of
reinforcement for long and short fibre systems.
 Structure/property relationships with respect to strength, modulus, fatigue, toughness, thermal
expansion, thermal conductivity, etc.
 Methods and effects of manufacture and fabrication on properties and design. Mechanical and
non-destructive testing of composite systems and typical applications.
 Metal Matrix Composites (MMC): Sources and properties of metal whiskers. Uses of metal
matrix composites. Fabrication techniques - solid state, liquid state, in situ fabrication.
Mechanical and chemical bonding. Discontinuous reinforcement in MMC. Strength, stiffness,
transverse, compressive, electrical and thermal properties. Applications and problems of high
temperature use.
 Ceramic Matrix Composites: Fabrication, properties, interface problems, toughness. High
temperature, corrosive, biomedical, friction related applications.
 New developments in composite materials and potential applications, including the practical
applications in the area of renewable energy.
Bibliography:Essential Reading:
Callister,W, (2002), Materials Science and Engineering: John Wiley and Sons.
Harper ,CA, (2002): ,Handbook of Plastics, Elastomers and Composites ( 4th Ed) ; Mcgraw Hill.
Mitton,G,(2002):Theory of Composites: Cambridge University Press.
Recommended Reading:
Sholte J, ( 2005), Nanotechnology industry trends and applications. Wiley.
Swanson SP, (1997), Introduction to Design and Analysis with advanced Composite materials:
Prentice Hall.
Journal of Materials: Design and Applications IMechE
Journal of Nanoengineering and Nanosystems IMechE
Journal of Advanced Materials. Wiley