Analytical Characterisation of Composite Materials

Module aims

This module introduces the various types of advanced analytical techniques used to characterise the properties of polymers, fibres and fibre-matrix interfaces, building upon the unique expertise within the Department. We will cover various spectroscopic, surface & interface, and thermo-mechanical characterisations suitable for characterising polymer composites. Analytical techniques suitable to characterise the bulk properties of polymer composites will also be covered in this module. For each of the analytical characterisation technique discussed, a basic understanding will first be provided, followed by an in-depth discussion of what the data and results mean. The real world applications of the analytical characterisation techniques are also covered in this module. Ultimately, students will be able to adapt and expand these advanced analytical characterisation techniques for various advanced materials beyond polymer composites. The content covered in this module is particularly suited for students who (i) aims to pursue a doctoral degree in materials-related subjects or (ii) intend to work with materials.

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing this module, you should be able to: (a) Recognise how each of the commonly used analytical charactersation techniques of composite materials works; (b) Be able to choose an appropriate analytical method and describe its principle of operation and the type of information available and (c) Explain the advantages and disadvantages of different analytical methods, especially for application to problems involving composite materials. AHEP Learning Outcomes: SM7M, SM9M, EA6M, EA7M, P12M, P10m

Module syllabus

Spectroscopic techniques: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to quantify the surface chemical composition of materials; Infra-red (IR) spectroscopy to quantify the bulk properties of materials; Raman spectroscopy to quantify molecular deformation and stress transfer efficiency between the fibre and the matrix; X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy to quantify the elemental composition of materials Surface and interface characterisation techniques: Methods to quantify contact angles and surface energy of materials (useful in wetting); zeta potential measurement to study the composition of the electric double layer; Inverse gas chromatography to characterise the surface energetics of solid substrates; Gravimetric and volumetric adsorption techniques to quantify the surface-specific properties (incl. surface area, moisture sorption etc) of materials. Microscopy techniques to look at surface morphologies. Thermo-mechanical characterisation techniques: Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis to quantify the viscoelastic properties of materials; Differential scanning calorimetry to determine the thermal properties of polymers; Gravimetric measurements to quantify the thermal degradation temperature of materials.  Bulk characterisation techniques: Pycnometry to determine the various types of densities of a material; viscosity measurements of a resin; Mercury intrusion porosimetry to quantify the porosity of a porous structure; Fibre volume fraction determination; micromechaincal testing suitable for quantify interfaces of composite materials.

Teaching methods

The module will be delivered primarily through large-class lectures introducing the key concepts and methods, supported by a variety of delivery methods combining the traditional and the technological. The content is presented via a combination of slides, whiteboard and visualizer. Learning will be reinforced through tutorial questions.

Assessments

Exam - Written examination (60%)

Coursework - Quiz (40%)