Module 73: Materials Engineering with Polymeres

Module 73 will provide you with the necessary background knowledge and understanding of the structure and property relationship of polymer materials to assist you in the selection of materials and manufacturing techniques to produce a sustainable, fit-for-purpose product.

Polymer products are driving innovation and research around the world and are predicted to continue to expand to replace traditional engineering materials in a variety of applications.

Students will be made aware of the wide range of polymer materials available to them and the opportunities arising from the daily development of new types. This unit provides students with an understanding of the relationship between the structure and properties of a polymer and between processing technology and product performance. The ability to determine the properties of a polymer is critical and this unit includes an overview and practical application of key test methods. One of the most important skills for a manufacturing engineer is the ability to differentiate between different types of polymers.

This skill is developed in practical sessions where students have the opportunity to carry out preliminary investigations and simple identification tests.

This is supported by an overview of the main types of polymer materials. Inadequate consideration of a particular behavioral requirement can lead to product failure and shortened service life.

This is addressed by teaching material modification techniques and learning how to use data sources for material selection. In addition, this learning unit will consider environmental aspects and offer solutions to reduce waste and improve sustainability.

Learning objectives

• Examine how the fundamental aspects of the molecular structure and morphology of polymers influence their processing and performance properties
• Distinguish between the main types of polymer materials to determine the selection of a polymer material for a specific application
• Recognize how polymeric material systems can be selected, modified, compounded or adapted for a specific engineering application
• Recognize the limitations of polymer behavior and possible solutions to environmental problems associated with polymers