Plastics Engineering 3

Overview

Introduction to polymer materials, their structural features, properties, charaterisation and applications; Structure-property relationships; Sustainable polymers; Plastics Recycling; Materials selection criteria and tools (Cambridge Engineering Selector); Time dependent viscoelastic properties of polymers (creep, recovery, relaxation), Pseudo-elastic design methods; Simple viscoelastic models.
Introduction to processing techniques; Extrusion, blow moulding, calendaring, injection moulding, thermoforming and rotational moulding; Process selection; Product & tool design; Process analysis; Principles of Newtonian melt flow; Polymer rheology; Non-Newtonian flow; Process thermodynamics.

Learning Objectives

Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study

Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles

Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems

Design solutions for complex problems that meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable environmental and commercial matters

Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems (to include the entire life-cycle of a product or process) and minimise adverse impacts

Select and apply appropriate materials, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations

Skills

Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences (C17)

Plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD (M18)

Assessment

None.