Electronic and Magnetic Materials (MREN90003)

This subject equips students to solve challenges associated with electronic, magnetic and optical aspects of materials. Students will receive an introduction to quantum mechanics, wave physics, wave functions, Planck’s constant and waves in periodic potentials. Schrodinger’s wave equation is discussed. Fundamental concepts such as band gap, band diagrams, carrier concentration, Fermi level, density of states, are covered. The mechanisms for electrical conductivity in metals, ceramics and polymers are explained. Students learn about intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors, electrons, holes, p-type n-type, dopants, p-n junctions, rectifiers, transistors and integrated circuits. Applications of electronic materials as in computers, LEDs, solar energy harvesting are highlighted. Dielectric and magnetic behaviour of materials including diamagnetic, paramagnetic and ferromagnetic behaviour is described including B-H loops, remnant magnetisation and coercive force. Topics also include optical properties of materials and eelectroactive materials, meta materials and 2D materials.