Polymers and Composites (MREN90001)

Students are introduced to Polymer Chemistry. The influence of chemical constituents on structure–property relationships is explained. Polymerisation reactions including free radical and ion are covered including initiation, step and chain growth and termination steps. The physical properties of polymers including MW and how to measure it with viscosity and GPC are described. Chemical characterisation including spectroscopy and NMR is elucidated. Polymer properties such as Tg, Tm and viscoelasticityare are described. The influence of polymer architecture including co-polymers and crystalline domains is discussed. Students are also introduced to other topics covering elastomers and rubbers. Description of polymers in solution including solubility parameter and chi are presented. The role of chain entanglement in polymer melts on viscoelasticity is described. Polymers as solids particularly mechanical behaviour is covered including thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. Polymer processing including injection moulding, compression moulding, blowing, extrusion, fibre and film formation is discussed. Students will be introduced to composites including all material classes. Particular detailed focus is on polymer matrix composites including particle and fibre reinforced materials. Mechanical properties of composites including, elastic modulus, strength and toughening mechanisms are covered.