This is an introduction to smart materials and their application in mechanical structures. The properties of smart materials will be reviewed and the course will culminate in the construction of a mechanically smart cantilever whose static and dynamic mechanical properties can be controlled. Students work in teams on projects evaluating societal or industrial based materials problems and then designing and evaluating a strategy to minimize or eliminate the problem. A study of the formation of polymers, the chemical, physical and mechanical structures of polymers as they affect the application and performance of these materials. Processing and engineering techniques for the conversion of polymeric materials into useful products are discussed.
Processes considered include forming, bonding and modification operations.
The effect of processing on the structure and properties of polymeric materials is emphasized. Senior standing and permission of department. Students work with a faculty member on an individual laboratory project in one or more of the areas of engineering materials. Students will design and carry out experiments, interpret data and prepare a comprehensive laboratory report.