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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Adv Eng Materials & Manufacturing Processes
Module Code MEC1032 (ITS: MM409)
Faculty Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng School Engineering & Computing
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Description

The objective of this module is to develop knowledge of and skills in analysing advanced materials, and processing routes. It exposes students to the more complex mechanics of composite systems, and provides opportunities to see how advanced materials characterisation methods can be used. The module is delivered through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and compulsory seminars.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify appropriate methods of advanced materials characterisation, discuss features and interpret data from a range of methods
2. Apply theories of composite mechanics under defined loading conditions to a range of composite structures
3. Perform heat and fluid flow numerical calculations to model material processing conditions.
4. Identify, describe and develop models for polymeric viscoelastic materials, and describe experiments to test these properties. Analyse and solve polymer engineering problems using linear viscoelastic models and the Boltzmann superposition principle.
5. Model forming loads, infiltration and permeability of porous structure processing steps including processes such as engineering ceramics, powder metallurgy and rapid prototyping
6. Carry out a literature search, and write a review approriately citing and listing sources.


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Tutorial12No Description
Lecture24No Description
Seminars12No Description
Independent Study77No Description
Total Workload: 125
Section Breakdown
CRN10235Part of TermSemester 1
Coursework0%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsY
Resit CategoryRC1Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorGarrett McguinnessModule TeacherDermot Brabazon
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Report(s)Group project to select and analyse a material system for an advanced application, including mechanical and cost analysis.25%Week 11
Formal ExaminationEnd-of-Semester Final Examination75%End-of-Semester
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Advanced Characterisation Methods
Interpretation of SEM, XRD, AFM, STM, IA and other advanced techniques

Composite Mechanics
Calculation of volume and mass fraction, composite stiffness, strength, ductility, transverse modulus, stress ratio and in-plane shear modulus.

Simulation of manufacturing processes
Manufacturing technologies and governing empirical equations – including modelling

Polymers
Polymer structure and properties; melt viscosity; crystalisation and melting; mechanical properties; linear viscoelasticity; Maxwell, Kelvin and generalized models; Boltzmann superposition principle.

Modelling of powder based processing
Ceramics: Ceramic Structure & Processing of ceramics; Properties of industrial technical ceramics; Research Trends. Modelling of powder pressing processes

Research Review
Key sources for materials and materials processing literature. Types of research projects and initiatives in this area.

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None
Other Resources

None

<< Back to Module List View 2024/25 Module Record for MM409