Library and laboratory work will be included. Processing of particulate materials is covered in detail, including atomization to produce powders, compaction, sintering, and post sintering operations. Interfacial issues to control flow and final density are studied, in addition to the fundamentals of phase flow, compaction and densification. Industrial applications and plant trips will augment classroom experience. Mathematical and numerical methods are developed for solutions to Fourier's and Fick's laws for a variety of boundary conditions.
Primary emphasis is given to heat treatment and surface modification processes.
Characterization techniques are discussed. Special emphasis is given to the mechanical, corrosion, fracture properties and processing of polymers. Course may be offered by special arrangement. Tribology, the study of friction, lubrication and wear, will be reviewed in the context of surface texture. Selection or surface measurement instruments and analysis methods, including fractal-based analysis, for finding functional correlations, for quality control and for the design of surface textures will be discussed.