Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the crystal chemistry of ceramic materials
2. Evaluate the behaviour and properties of ceramic materials using various analytical techniques
3. Describe the relationship between microstructure, crystal structure, and properties
4. Carry out logical selection of ceramic materials for engineering applications.
Indicative Module Content:
composition and structure of ceramics: atomic bonding, crystallography, crystal chemistry, defects, microstructure
characterisation techniques: x-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, electron microscopy, thermal analysis, spectroscopy techniques, mechanical testing of brittle materials
sintering: theory of solid and liquid phase sintering, raw material preparation, pre- and post- sintering steps
glass production: amorphous phase production, example glass compositions, heat treatments
structural ceramics examples: relating structure to bulk properties, zirconias, toughening mechanisms, sialons, multiphase microstructures, effects of grain size and shape
Introduction to important classes and applications of ceramics: functional vs structural ceramics, ceramic composites, glass-ceramics, bioceramics, refractories, electroceramics, and 2D materials
Recent developments in ceramic processing