Material Science for Civil Engineers

[0.50] credits · Undergraduate

The course explores the properties of solids as a basis for material selection and design in diverse civil engineering applications. Atomic structures and arrangements that gives rise to material properties and failure mechanisms are examined. Behaviour in use such as durability, corrosion, deformation and fracture of materials are considered. Materials covered include metals and alloys, polymers, ceramics, glass, and composites. Emphasis is placed on materials commonly used in construction such as steel, wood, concrete and geotextiles. The environmental implications (e.g. material recovery, greenhouse gas emission) of material selection are explored. Emerging alternatives to enhance the sustainability and resilience of infrastructure are introduced.