Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Microstructures & Properties of Materials
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11MS
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
Code:
5.
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No

Date Of Replacement:
MChem in Chemistry, BSc (Hons) in Chemistry with Materials, MChem Chemistry with Materials, MChem in Chemistry with
Pharmaceutical Chemistry, MChem in Chemistry with Forensic Science, MChem in Chemistry with Industrial Experience,
MChem in Chemistry with Nanotechnology
7. Aims
The module aims to :
 provide a detailed understanding of structure/property relationships in materials in an applied context, at an advanced level
 present an advanced discussion in key topics in controlled polymerisation methods
 describe a range of processing techniques
 provide an advanced discussion in key topics in Polymer Science and materials at the nanoscale
8. Syllabus
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Basic polymer properties – The basic structure of polymer molecules. Homopolymers and Copolymers. Conformation and configuration. The polymer coil.
Solution properties – Ideal and non-ideal solutions. Thermodynamics of polymer solutions.
Molar mass determination – Average molecular weight. Molecular weight distribution. Measurements of molecular weight and molecular weight distribution.
Polymer phases and microstructures – Amorphous and crystalline polymers. Determination of transition temperatures. Differential thermal methods of analysis.
The glass transition. The concept of free volume. Plasticisation. Crystallisation. Liquid crystalline polymers.
Polymer flow – Viscosity. Elements of rheology. Newtonian and non-newtonian flow. Chain entanglements.
Viscoelasticity and mechanical properties of polymers – Elastic and viscoelastic behaviour. Creep and stress relaxation. Dynamic mechanical measurements.
Five regions of viscoelasticity. Time-temperature superposition. Rubber elasticity.
Polymer Processing – Importance of polymer processing and properties: Processing methods. Polymer Orientation. Blends and Composites.
Trends in Polymer Synthesis – Controlled polymerisation methods: Anionic polymerisation. Living polymerisation. Ziegler-Natta and metallocene catalysts and
polymerisation mechanism. Supramolecular polymers.
Nanoscale Systems – Synthesis, properties and structural features of nanoparticles and nanostructured materials
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Microstructures & Properties of Materials
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11MS
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding in all main areas of polymer science
 Display a critical understanding of the main concepts, theories and principles relating to polymeric materials and nanoscale
materials; their properties, structure, processing and synthesis
 Demonstrate detailed and critical knowledge of specialised polymer concepts and theories, at the forefront of the subject
 Display a critical awareness of current issues in polymer science and nanochemistry
 Use fundamental principles to solve both qualitative and numerical problems of an advanced nature
 Analyse, evaluate and interpret experimental evidence at the forefront of polymer chemistry and nanotechnology
 Demonstrate knowledge of the unique properties exhibited by materials in which one or more dimensions lie in the nanoscale range
Personal Abilities Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Critically review, consolidate and extend knowledge of structure-property relationships
 Exercise substantial independence and initiative in carrying out learning activities
 Take responsibility for own work
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Communicate effectively to a range of audiences with different levels of knowledge
 Interpret and critically evaluate numerical and graphical data, at the forefront of the field
 Use a wide range of software to support and enhance work
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials as the main means of support of the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Modular Examination
Continuous Assessment
2h
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
70%
30%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
27 September, 2007
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
Version
Number
1.0
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