Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3-4

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This module equips students with the basic knowledge of structures and properties of engineering materials. The topics covered include atomic bonding and condensed phases; crystal structures, crystallography and crystal imperfections; the thermodynamics of alloys, phase equilibrium and phase diagrams; thermally activated processes, diffusion, kinetics of phase transformation, non-equilibrium phases; mechanical properties and strengthening mechanisms, fracture of materials, corrosion and oxidation resistance, other properties.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-4-3

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This is a core module that teaches important modern laboratory methods and practices for the characterization of physical and chemical microstructure, as well as physical and mechanical properties of materials. Techniques covered include: metallography, principles and applications of various forms of microscopy (optical, scanning electron, scanning tunneling, atomic force) and spectroscopy (energy-dispersive x-ray, x-ray diffraction), image analysis, data interpretation, mechanical testing, thermal analysis, non-destructive testing.

Modular credits: 4

Workload:  4-2-0-2-2

Pre-requisite(s): Basic materials science and engineering

Major controversial issues in the application of biomaterials to medical problems will be covered. Fundamental structure-property relationships and issues such as wear and structural integrity will be addressed. Subjects considered include introduction to biomaterials, host-tissue response, blood compatibility, control drug release polymers, bioadhesion, contact lenses, polyurethanes, biodegradation, protein adsorption, corrosion, orthopedic and cardiovascular implants, stress shielding, materials selection in artificial organs and medical device regulation. Format will utilise case studies, special invited lectures, discussion, literature research and problem solving.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-1-6

Preclusions: CN4203

Polymer Production, polymerization kinetics, methods of bulk, solution, dispersion, suspension and emulsion polymerization; design of polymerization reactors; analysis of polymer processing operations, extrusion, film blowing, wire-coating, injection molding, blow moulding, thermoforming, calendering and mixing; polymer rheology, the kinematics of deformation and flow, viscometry and rheometry, constitutive equations based on continuum/rational mechanics and on molecular theory.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-1-6 

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Survey of functional polymers. Polymer applications in photoresists, e-beam resists, printed wiring as encapsulants in polymer blends and polymer membranes. Electroactive polymers. Polymers in optoelectronics. Surface modified and functionalized polymers. Miscibility in polymer blends. Membrane science. Membrane making and membrane characterization.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload:3-0-0-3-4

Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion(s): None

The objective of this module is to provide students with a broad spectrum of knowledge in fundamentals of membrane science and engineering, as well as in membrane applications for chemical, environmental and biomedical engineering. The module starts with the introduction of various membranes and their applications. We then teach the general theory of membrane transport for pressure, concentration and electric field driven separation and purification processes. The basic principles of membrane fabrication for symmetric, asymmetric and composite membranes will be studied. Other focuses will be given to membrane fouling, liquid membranes, and facilitated transport in order to broaden students’ knowledge in membrane usage and functional membranes. In order to inspire student interests in membrane applications for life science, the module will also include membranes for controlled release devices, biomimetic and biological membranes for life science.

Modular Credits 4

Workload 3-0-0-0-7

Prerequisites CE3166 or CE4 standing or higher

This module equips students with the advanced knowledge in concrete materials and technology for general and specialized application in civil engineering work. Topics covered include constituents of concrete; properties of fresh concrete; properties of hardened concrete; proportioning and production of concrete mixes; durability; high performance applications; concrete practice for hot climate. The module targets at undergraduate and graduate students interested in concrete materials and their applications to civil and infrastructure works.

Modular Credits 4

Workload 3-0-0-0-7

Pre-requisites: N/A

Introduction. Solid surface characterization. Contact between solid surfaces.

Friction. Thermal analysis. Wear mechanism. Lubrication. Surface finishing.

Modular Credits 4

Workload 3-0-0-0-7

Pre-requisites: N/A

To provide an understanding of magnetics as applied to electrical engineering designs. To provide knowledge and tools for the designers and manufacturers of both permanent magnets and magnetic components. This subject deals with analysis and design of permanent magnets. Computational techniques like finite elements are used. Modeling of magnets and technique of analysis are studied. Materials for magnet manufacturing and related matters are studied. A number of design case studies are used to prepare students for design work in areas like, electromagnets, permanent magnetic designs, motors and actuators.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-0-7

Pre-requisite: EE2004

This module provides a background knowledge of physics of electrical and optical properties of bulk and low dimensional semiconductor materials. The topics covered are as follows. Quantum mechanics: Schrodinger equation, particle in a box, tunneling effect, harmonic oscillator, time- independent perturbation theory. Solid state physics: crystal lattices, band theory, lattice vibration, the Fermi-Dirac distribution function and Fermi level, donor and acceptor states and carrier concentrations. Electrical properties of semiconductors, drift, diffusion, generation, recombination, trapping and tunneling. Optical properties of semiconductors, optical constants, optical absorption, radiative transition and luminescence, exciton effect, etc. Ternary and quaternary compound semiconductors, heterostructures, quantum wells and superlattices, quantum effect devices.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-0-7

Pre-requisite: EE4411

In the complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process, understanding of plasma technology is very important since most of etching and deposition techniques are carried out in the plasma. Also, multi-level interconnect technology becomes more important as devices need to operate in the higher frequency regime. This course provides post-graduate students with in-depth knowledge on plasma and material properties required to study CMOS processing technology. Topics covered are Plasma Processing Principle, Thin Film Deposition Principle, Deposition Process, Plasma Etching Process, CMOS Local Interconnect Process, CMOS Global Interconnects and Multi-Level Metallization, Characterization of Materials Properties.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3-4

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This module covers introduction to optical techniques, such as holography and shearography, in stress analysis of structures and one and two dimensional problems, thermal stress analysis, thermoelasticity and impact mechanics. Topics include parallel and series bar assemblies, plane strips, plates and bars, cylindrical and spherical shells, circular plates, cylinders and sphere. Stress waves in solids and the resultant failure and damage are studied. This module is targeted at engineers working in the manufacturing, aerospace and defense industries.  

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3-4

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This module covers introduction to plasticity which includes state of stress and strain, yield criteria, stress strain relationship, work-hardening characteristics, and geometrical representation of stress strain relations for work hardening materials. Applications include thin and thick-walled cylinders, beams and frame structures, limit analysis of beams and plane frames. Various plane strain and plane stress problems in plastic working of metals are studied and approximate solutions including the bounding methods are also included. In addition, creep phenomenon of creep and its effects are covered. This module is targeted at engineers working in the manufacturing, aerospace and defense industries.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0.5-2-4.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This is a basic module which aims at providing a good foundation and understanding of optical techniques for research and industrial applications. Newer optical methods such as holography, shearography and electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) developed for research and industrial use will be studied. Updated methods such as using laser and computer technology in moiré and photoelasticity will be treated. Such advances have brought optical techniques to a new dimension in measurement and non-destructive testing.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3-4

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This module concerns the fundamentals and advanced knowledge of polymeric materials from their molecular structures and properties to fabrication processes and design considerations. The topics covered include types of polymers, molecular weight distribution, morphology and effect of temperature, crystallinity, deformation and fracture of polymers, engineering plastics and their properties, degradation of plastics, making and shaping of polymers, concepts and micromechanics of fibre reinforced composites, types of fiber reinforcements and their characteristics, engineering composites and their properties, manufacturing techniques of composite products/structures, design considerations. Working engineers and graduate students working with polymer related materials and/or products are encouraged to attend. 

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-0-7.5

Prerequisite: N/A

This module aims to teach the fundamentals and advanced concepts related to the corrosion of metallic materials. Particular emphasis is placed to use case histories so that the students learn to apply the knowledge gained through the lectures. Major topics covered under this module include: Fundamentals of Corrosion; Dry Corrosion; Wet Corrosion; Types of Corrosion; Corrosion Prevention; Corrosion of Fe and Al Alloys and Corrosion Testing. This module is useful for both part-time and full-time graduate students who see themselves in a career related to failure analysis and/or materials. 

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-4-3

Prerequisite: N/A

The objective is to expose students to the various methods to tackle problems related to fracture and fatigue of materials so that they can apply them to practical situations. Particular emphasis is placed on fracture and fatigue properties of materials. Major topics include: linear elastic fracture mechanics, fracture mechanics in yielded regime, standard tests for fracture toughness; high and low cycle fatigue, factors affecting fatigue properties of materials, conventional fatigue design, fatigue crack propagation, fracture and fatigue mechanisms and control. This module is useful for students who see themselves in a career related to failure analysis and/or materials. 

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-4-3

Prerequisite: None

This module introduces the main concepts and fundamental principles of tribology, or science and technology of friction, lubrication and wear. Major topics covered include: surface topography, the contact of surfaces, solid-to-solid friction, temperatures of sliding surfaces, sliding wear, types and mechanisms of tribological damage, test methods in tribology, techniques for combating friction and wear, surface engineering, This module is aimed at all students who wish to gain an insight into understanding and addressing tribological problems in modern industry.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4
Pre-requisite: N/A

This module teaches the practicing engineers the mechanics of metal forming in solving the industrial forming problems. At the end of the course, the students are expected to have acquired basic knowledge of various forming techniques, their analysis and applications. Major topics: Theory of plasticity as applied to metal forming processes, Different yield criteria, Uniaxial & Biaxial Tension Deep drawing, Extrusion, Wire drawing, Metal spinning, flow-turning and flow-forming, High energy rate forming processes, Rolling, Forging, Bending processes, Fine blanking and Shearing. Students are expected to carry out an independent study on topics dealing with the latest development in area of metal forming.

Modular Credits: 4
Work load: 3-0-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s): N/A

In this module, students will learn advanced-level materials through topics reflecting the special interests of faculty members in the Applied Mechanics Divisional Group or visiting experts. Lectures, given by either/both department faculty members and visiting experts, will consist of practical examples and case studies. Grades are based on 100% continuous assessment. This module is intended for graduate students and engineers interested in learning more about advanced topics in applied mechanics.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0.5-2-4.5
Pre-requisite(s): N/A

With the growing need for non-contacting whole-field measurement and inspection, the development and implementation of optical techniques have rapidly become major activities in universities, research institutions and industries. This module aims to provide a good foundation and understanding of these techniques for research and industrial applications. Topics to be covered include: Depth gauging using laser triangulation. Surface contouring using Moire techniques. Displacement measurement and surface contouring using holography. Surface strains and slope measurements using shearography. Surface profiling and deformation measurement using projection grating. Nondestructive testing and surface quality inspection.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4
Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Understanding and prevention of fracture in engineering applications require the integration of several fundamental concepts in solid mechanics and material behaviour. In this course, major topics to be covered include linear elastic and elastic-plastic fracture mechanics, energy approach to fracture, introduction to finite element analysis, interfacial fracture mechanics and its applications to thin film and multilayered structures in electronic packaging.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Students will learn research-based materials through special research topics reflecting the interests and research expertise of faculty members in the Materials Science Divisional Group. Lectures will be given mainly by department faculty members and/or visiting specialists. Practical examples and case studies will be presented and discussed. The module is based on 100% continued assessments consisting of research essays or term papers. This module is intended for graduate students (especially those pursuing Ph.D.) interested in learning more on advanced research techniques and current state-of-the-art specialised research topics.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s): N/A

In this module students will learn advanced-level materials through topics reflecting the special interests of faculty members in the Materials Science Divisional Group or visiting experts. Lectures, given by either/both department faculty members and visiting experts, will consist of practical examples and case studies. Grades are based on 100% continued assessments. This module is intended for graduate students and engineers interested in learning more about advanced materials.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-0-5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

The module is designed for graduate students who study in the area of metallic materials. It deals with fundamentals of thermodynamics and kinetics related to metals. The course starts with introduction on thermodynamics followed by ideal and regular solutions. Different atomic mechanisms of diffusion will be discussed. The course will underline transformations from thermodynamics point of view. The following topics will be taught in this module: fundamentals of phase diagrams, chemical equilibrium, diffusion, interfaces, diffusional transformations, diffusionless transformations structure of liquid metals, nucleation and growth in liquid metals, solidification related structures and defects.

Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-0-5

Pre-requisite: None

The module deals with defects and dislocations in solids, with emphasis on physical understanding of the geometry and arrangement of dislocations. Basic features of the geometry, movement and elastic properties of dislocations are first described. Properties of dislocations associated with their movement, intersections with other dislocations, jogs and multiplication of dislocations will be considered. Effects of defects and dislocations on properties will also be discussed. The main topics include fundamentals of crystallography, types of defects in solids, thermodynamics of defects, dislocations and strength of crystalline solids. The course is suitable for engineering and science graduate students.

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4
Pre-requisite: None

The main objective of this module is to teach the students how to model machining processes. The major topics include an overview of major machining processes and their characteristic factors, modelling of chip formation in metal cutting, modelling of machining characteristics in turning, modelling of machining characteristics in milling, modeling of machining characteristics in drilling, and modelling of work piece material flow stress properties in machining. The target students include Ph.D. students and higher levels of M.Sc., M.Eng. students in the areas of materials and manufacturing.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3.5-3.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

This module teaches thermodynamics and kinetics of different engineering materials including metals, ceramics and polymers.  The major topics cover: Equilibrium and non-equilibrium. Introduction to statistical thermodynamics Transition state theory and field effects. Solution theory. Phase diagrams. Diffusion mechanisms. Nucleation in condensed phases. Surface energy. Crystal growth. Defects in crystals. Phase transformation theories. Formation of nanostructures: nano-dots, nano-wells, nano-wires and nano-tubes.

Modular credits:

Workload: 3-0-0-3.5-3.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

The mechanical behaviours of materials, with the emphasis on the dependence of the behaviours on the structures of the materials. The elastic properties of single and polycrystalline materials.  Rubber elasticity, polymer elasticity, and viscoelasticity.  Tensile test and hardness test.  Nano-indentation.  Dislocations and twining.  Yielding in crystalline solids.  Applications of the dislocation theory to material strengthening mechanisms.  Overview of the mechanical behaviours of thin films, nano-materials, and cells.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3.5-3.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Periodic trends in atomic properties, bonding generalization based on periodic trends, generalization about crystal structures based on periodicity.  Structural concepts: crystal lattice, reciprocal lattice, diffraction, crystal structures, lattice dynamics, and energy band structure.  Examples of effects of structure on physical and chemical properties are discussed.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-0-3.5-3.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Physical properties of metals, ceramics, polymers and their hybrids are covered. These include overview of electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, magnetic properties, ferroelectricity, piezoelectricity, and optical properties of different classes of materials.  The correlations of length-scale, structure, microstructures, and interfaces of materials with their properties are emphasized.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2-0.5-0-1.5-6

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Thin-film growth techniques, plating, vaporization, sputtering, chemical vapour deposition, molecular beam epitaxy, hot-wall epitaxy and laser ablation, gas transport and pumping, vacuum and related theories and technology for thin film growth, pumps and systems, condensation, nucleation, phase stability and basic modes of thin film growth, zone models for evaporated and sputtered coatings, factors on properties of thin films, columnar structure and epitaxial growth, thin film reactions, optical and electrical properties. Learning objectives: Various technologies and principles for thin solid film growth, electrical and optical properties of thin films. Target students: Graduate students of Materials Science and related disciplines.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2-0.5-0-1.5-6

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Fundamentals of ceramic processing, sintering theories, microstructural control of structural and electronic ceramics; defect chemistry for structural and electronic ceramics; important structural ceramics - alumina, zirconia, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, sialons; functional properties of ceramic materials; important electronic ceramics - ferroelectric, piezoelectric, relaxors, PTC, NTC, and varistors.  Learning objectives: Examine and understand the fundamental of ceramic processing, sintering theories, control of microstructures for structural and electronic ceramics; defect chemistry, important structural and electronic ceramics. Target students: Graduate Students of Materials Science and related disciplines.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2-0.5-0-1.5-6

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Environmental control: electrochemical sensing techniques, gas and vapour phase sensors, electrochemical treatments in waste disposal. Solar power: semiconductor electrochemistry, photoelectrochemistry, wet and solid state solar cells, light emitting diodes and detectors, conducting polymers, battery systems, fuel cells, biomedical control: electrochemical bio-sensors, batteries for implants and hearing aids. Learning objectives: Solid/solution interface in terms of Fermi levels and redox potentials; requirements in generating photocurrents; way materials selection and design influences battery performance; interactions between gases and solid surfaces and how these can be used to design practical sensors. Target students: Graduate students of Materials Science and related disciplines.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2-0.5-0-1.5-6

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Processing techniques and methods: melt-spinning, laser surface melting, powder metallurgy, atomization and consolidation methods, spray forming and mechanical alloying, structure and properties: extension of solid solubility including thermodynamic and kinetic considerations, formation of non-equilibrium, quasicrystalline and non-crystalline phases, refinement of microstructure, mechanical properties, latest developments and applications of advanced materials such as quasicrystal, bulk metallic glasses, magnesium-based alloys and hard magnetic materials in the field. Learning objectives: Introduction to non-conventional processing techniques for metallic materials for advanced applications; examine effects of processing techniques on their structure and properties. Target students: Graduate students of Materials Science and related disciplines.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2-0.5-0-1.5-6

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Methods for analyzing stresses in elastically dissimilar films deposited on structures and their applications in modern industries, stress concentrations on a wavy film surface, the criteria for the formation of threading dislocations in heteroepitaxial thin films and in layered structures, surface shapes and growth modes, the morphological stability of a stressed flat films against roughening and its application in the self-assembly of nano-structures. Learning objectives: Apply basic knowledge of the mechanical properties of materials to thin film-substrate films. Target students: Graduate students of Materials Science and related disciplines.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 3-0-1-2.5-3.5

Pre-requisite(s): N/A

Introduction to modelling of materials structures and properties; Units of materials quantities and nondimensionalization; Continuum modelling and deterministic representation of materials processes: boundary value problems; Discrete modelling and probabilistic representation of materials processes: statistic mechanics; Monte Carlo simulations: partition functions, sampling and random number generations, algorithms and implementations; Molecular dynamics simulations: atomic potentials, numerical algorithms and implementations; Case studies: connections between materials structures and properties.

Modular credits: 4

Workload: 2.5-0-0-1.5-6-10

Pre-requisite(s): Background in solid state physics, material chemistry and materials science and engineering. Introductory knowledge of nanostructured materials.

 Preclusion(s): Nil

Cross-listing(s): Nil

Major topics include nano-scale phenomena and the related chemical, physical and transport properties, size effect and quantum mechanics, nano phase diagrams, interface and surface of nanoparticles and their effects, processing of organic, inorganic and bio-based nanoparticles, nanocomposites and thin films, advanced characterisation of long range and short range orders, x-ray scattering, anomalous x-ray scattering, extended absorption fine structure. Specific focus will be placed on magnetic media films and nanostructured phosphors for advanced applications. Target students: PhD level students with particular interests in areas of magnetic media and nano phosphors. disciplines.