This module builds on level C material to expand from fundamental functional properties of conductors, insulators and semiconductors to more complex topics related to hydrogen, strong magnets and superconductors.
This links to the 2017 QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Materials:3.4 i atomic bonding, crystalline lattices, defects and disorder, amorphous materials iii structure on the nano, micro, meso and macro scales.v functional behaviour - the control through composition and structure of electrical, optical and magnetic properties as well as biocompatibility.ix techniques for determining electrical, optical and magnetic properties
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Solve problems related to composition - processing - property relationships for complex functional materials;
Describe the limits for functional performance and strategies for their improvement
Describe and compare processing routes for superconductors;
Explain hydrogen storage mechanisms in both metals and non-metals;
Describe and compare the composition and processing of a range of strong magnets;
Compare the different types of superconductor and explain their performance;
Describe the mechanism of ionic conduction in ceramics and discuss strategies for improving this through processing
These link to the AHEP v4 learning outcomes
Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study (C1)
Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles (C2)
Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks (C10)
Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks (M10)