Table of Contents | Index | Print Version

Materials Science and Engineering

Professors. Helen M. Chan, Ph.D. (Imperial College of Science and Technology, England), chair and New Jersey Zinc Professor; Charles E. Lyman, Ph.D. (M.I.T.), associate chair; John N. DuPont, Ph.D. (Lehigh), Stout Chair; Martin P. Harmer, Ph.D. (Leeds, England), Alcoa Professor, director of Center for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology; Himanshu Jain, Sci. D. (Columbia), Diamond Chair; Chris Kiely, Ph.D. (Bristol); Wojciech Misiolek, Sc.D (U. of Mining and Metallurgy, Krakow, Poland), Loewy Chair; Raymond A. Pearson, Ph.D. (Michigan); Jeffrey M. Rickman, Ph.D. (Carnegie-Mellon); Richard P. Vinci, Ph.D. (Stanford).

Associate Professors. Masashi Watanabe, Ph.D. (Kyushu).

Assistant Professors. Xuanhong Cheng, Ph.D. (U. of Washington); Sabrina S. Jedlicka, Ph.D. (Purdue).

Adjunct Professors. Walter L. Brown, Ph.D. (Harvard); Carol Kiely, Ph.D. (University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom).

Emeritus Professors. Betzalel Avitzur, Ph.D. (Michigan); Sidney R. Butler, Ph.D. (Penn State); G. Slade Cargill, III, Ph.D. (Harvard); Ye T. Chou, Ph.D. (Carnegie Mellon); Alwyn Eades, Ph.D. (Cambridge); Richard W. Hertzberg, Ph.D. (Lehigh); Ralph J. Jaccodine, Ph.D. (Notre Dame); Arnold R. Marder, Ph.D. (Lehigh); Michael R. Notis, Ph.D. (Lehigh); Alan W. Pense, Ph.D. (Lehigh); Donald M. Smyth, Ph.D. (M.I.T); Leslie H. Sperling, Ph.D. (Duke); Robert D. Stout, Ph.D. (Lehigh); S. Kenneth Tarby, Ph.D. (Carnegie-Mellon); David A. Thomas, Sc.D. (M.I.T.).

Research scientists. Robert Keyse and Samuel J. Lawrence.

As science and technology advance in the 21st century, progress in many fields will depend on the discovery and development of new materials, processed in more complex ways, and with new kinds of properties. It is widely recognized that the progress of history has been divided into periods characterized by the materials that mankind has used, e.g., the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age. Today, materials science and engineering is critical to all other fields of engineering, and advances in other fields are often limited by advances in materials.

Interest in new materials for solid-state devices, space technology, and superconductivity, as well as a better understanding of the behavior of materials in the design of structures, automobiles and aircraft, plant processing equipment, electronic devices, biomedical devices, etc., have increased the need for people trained in science and technology of materials.

Education for this field of engineering requires basic studies in mathematics, chemistry, physics and mechanics, plus a general background in engineering principles, followed by intensive training in the application of these principles to the development and use of materials in a technological society.

B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering

The undergraduate program is designed to train graduates for research, development, operations, management, and sales careers in industry or for graduate study in various specialties of the field, including the manufacture and application of metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and electronic materials. While some graduates go directly into materials-producing companies, most serve as engineers in the transportation, electronics, chemical, communications, space, and other industries. A number of students pursue graduate study leading to careers in research and teaching, medicine, or the law.

Materials Science and Engineering majors have opportunities to gain valuable experience in other, related fields, including other areas of engineering or science, by choosing to concentrate elective courses in one of these areas. Requirements for adding a Minor include at least 15 course credits in that area, which may be taken as technical or free electives in the student's major. It is particularly straightforward for students to obtain a minor in Chemical Engineering, in Manufacturing Engineering, in Nanotechnology, or in Polymer Science and Engineering.

Materials Science and Engineering majors can also participate in undergraduate research at universities in Great Britain and elsewhere during the summer between Junior and Senior years. The Materials Science and Engineering Industrial Option program enables students to gain work experience during the Senior Year. The Materials Science and Engineering Research Option program provides senior undergraduates with research experience.

Five-Year programs are available to broaden the Materials Science and Engineering undergraduate experience. One such program is the Arts-Engineering Program, in which students can earn both the Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering and the Bachelor of Arts degree in some area within the College of Arts and Sciences, such as biology, physics, chemistry, or history. Another is the B.S./M.Ed. Program, which leads (in five years of study and internships) to the B.S. degree in Materials Science and Engineering and a masters degree (M.Ed.) in Education, with elementary or secondary teacher certification.

Minor in Materials Science and Engineering

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers minors to students majoring in other subjects. The Department is enthusiastic in its support of students who wish to broaden their education by taking a minor. To obtain a minor in Materials Science and Engineering, a student must complete one required course (MAT 33, 3 credits) and four other three-credit courses for a total of 15 credit hours. The four courses may be chosen from a long list of 200 and 300 level courses relevant to various engineering disciplines.

Minor in Nanotechnology

Materials for nanotechnology applications have new properties unavailable in bulk materials. The synthesis, processing, and characterization of these materials require facility with concepts beyond those needed for typical engineering materials. This minor requires MAT 355 Materials for Nanotechnology (3 credits), a course on crystallography and band theory, and additional electives for a total of 15 credits.

Educational Mission and Program-Objectives

The Materials Science and Engineering undergraduate program's mission is to provide its students an excellent education in a scholarly environment.

Our Educational Objectives are that graduates have the knowledge and experience needed to advance to successful careers and, where appropriate, for graduate study, in materials-related fields. Successful careers will be reflected in continuing employment, personal satisfaction, professional recognition, and advancement in responsibilities. Success in graduate studies will be indicated by admission to highly ranked graduate programs, timely completion of degree requirements, and recognition by competitive fellowships and other awards.

Program Outcomes

The MS&E undergraduate Program Outcomes declare that graduates should:

1. have a firm base of knowledge in areas of mathematics, physics, and chemistry relevant to materials science and engineering, and be able to apply and extend this knowledge;

2. understand relationships among materials structure, properties, processing, and performance for metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and electronic materials; be able to extend this knowledge; and be able to apply it in materials analysis, development, selection, and design;

3. be able to function effectively on problem-solving teams and to coordinate and provide leadership for teams, including multidisciplinary teams;

4. be knowledgeable and experienced in using basic laboratory tools, computers, and databases for materials analysis, development, and selection;

5. be able to define and solve materials-related problems, including design problems, within economic, environmental, and time deadline constraints;

6. develop skills in writing, speaking, reading, and listening, needed to communicate logically and effectively;

7. understand and accept professional and ethical responsibilities, including responsibilities for public safety and workplace safety;

8. gain background in history, economics, world cultures, and current events to provide a realistic context for their professional activities.

Major Requirements

The recommended sequence of courses is shown below. The standard freshman engineering year is shown in section III. A total of 132 credits or more is required to graduate.

sophomore year, first semester (18 credits)

sophomore year, second semester (18 –19 credits)

HSS Humanities/Social Sciences Elective (3 or 4)

junior year, first semester (18 credits)

Elect Free Elective (3)

junior year, second semester (18-19 credits)

HSS Humanities/Social Sciences Elective (3 or 4)

Elect Free Elective (3)

senior year, first semester (15 credits)

HSS Humanitites/Social Sciences Elective (4)

senior year, second semester (16 credits)

Elect Free Elective (3)

*MAT 33 is taught in both the fall and spring semesters

Electives for the sophomore, junior, and senior years must be distributed as follows:

Humanities and Social Sciences: 13-15 credit hours.

Free Electives: 9 credit hours in any department.

Approved Elective (3 credit hours) and Engineering Science Electives (6 credit hours) must be selected from a specific list supplied by the Materials Science and Engineering Department. The list includes the Industrial Option and the Research Option.

Industrial Option

Research Option

The Industrial Option introduces students to the work of materials engineers in industry. The emphasis is a team approach to the solution of actual plant problems. The courses are conducted in cooperation with local industries. 20 hours per week are spent at the plant of the cooperating industry on investigations of selected problems. The option is limited to a small group of seniors, selected by the Department from those who apply. Summer employment is provided when possible for those who elect to initiate the program during the summer preceding the senior year.

The Research Option is offered for students interested in research and development. Financial support may be available for students who elect to initiate a research program during the summer preceding the senior year. The option is limited to a small group of students, selected by the Department from those who apply.

Undergraduate Courses

MAT 10. Materials Laboratory (2) fall

Introduction to experimental methods used to fabricate and measure the structure and properties of materials. Thermal and mechanical processing and properties are emphasized. Specimen preparation and examination by light optical microscopy. Prerequisite: MAT 33 previously or concurrently. DuPont

MAT 20. Computational Methods in Materials Science (3) spring

The use of computers and computational methods to solve problems in materials science and engineering. Students will employ both commercial packages and their own code in order to complete assignments. Students will utilize word processing and display packages to present results of projects. Prerequisite: ENGR. 1 or equivalent. Rickman

MAT 33. Engineering Materials and Processes (3) fall/spring

Application of physical and chemical principles to understanding, selection, and fabrication of engineering materials. Materials considered include metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and electronic materials. Case studies of materials used range from transportation systems to microelectronic devices. Watanabe or Chan and Staff

MAT 101. Professional Development (2) fall

The role and purpose of engineering in society; the meaning of being a professional; engineering ethics; environmental issues; safety issues; communications and decision-making in the engineering process; expectations and problems of young engineers; personal goals; choosing a career. Required reading. Written reports based on library research. Prerequisite: junior standing. Lyman

MAT 107. Special Topics in Materials (13)

A study of selected topics in materials science and engineering not covered in other formal courses. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.

MAT 196. Education Option (3)

Selected students may create and use educational modules for disseminating concepts in materials science and engineering.

For Advanced Undergraduates and Graduate Students

MAT 201. Physical Properties of Materials (3) fall

Basic concepts of modern physics and quantum mechanics needed for an understanding of electrons in solids. The experimental development leading to wave mechanics is emphasized. Uses of the Schrodinger equation as the basis for the free electron theory of metals and band theory. Optical properties are developed leading to a discussion of lasers. Prerequisites: Phys 21, MAT 33, MATH 205. Jain

MAT 203. Materials Structure at the Nanoscale (3) spring

The structure of metals, ceramics, semiconductors, and polymers at the atomic scale. Materials structures at the nanoscale and macroscale. Crystalline, semicrystalline, liquid crystalline, and amorphous (glassy) states. Crystal structures and fundamental aspects of formal crystallography. Point, line, and planar crystal defects. Materials characterization by x-ray diffraction, light and electron microscopy, and other techniques. Prerequisites: CHEM 30; MAT 33 previously or concurrently; MAT 10 or permission of instructor. Lyman

MAT 204. Processing and Properties of Polymeric Materials (3) spring

The structure-property relationships in polymers will be developed, emphasizing the glass transition, rubber elasticity, crystallinity, and mechanical behavior. Elements of polymer processing. Extrusion of plastics and films, and fiber spinning operations. Prerequisite: MAT 33. Pearson

MAT 205. Thermodynamics of Macro/Nanoscale Materials (3) spring

The three laws of thermodynamics. Gibbs free energy and conditions of equilibrium. Effects of scale on material behavior. Binary and ternary equilibrium phase diagrams. Application of thermodynamics to materials problems, with examples from nanotechnology, biotechnology, and structural materials. Prerequisites: MATH 23 and MAT 33, previously or concurrently. Vinci

MAT 206. Processing and Properties of Metals (3) spring

The production and purification of metals, their fabrication, and control of their properties. Includes topics such as precipitation hardening, hot and cold working, and casting. Prerequisites: MAT 216, MAT 218. Misiolek

MAT 211 (ENGR 211; BUS 211). Integrated Product Development (IPD) I (3) spring

Business, engineering, and design arts students work in cross disciplinary teams of 4-6 students on conceptual design including marketing, financial and economic planning, economic and technical feasibility of new product concepts. Teams work on industrial projects with faculty advisors. Oral presentations and written reports. Prerequisite: junior standing in engineering, business, or arts and science.

MAT 212 (ENGR 212; BUS 212) Integrated Product Development II (2) fall

Business engineering, and design arts students work in cross disciplinary teams of 4-6 students on the detailed design including fabrication and testing of a prototype of the new product designed in the IPD course I. Additional deliverables include a detailed production plan, marketing plan, detailed base-case financial models, project and product portfolio. Teams work on industrial projects with faculty advisors. Oral presentations and written reports. Prerequisite: MAT 211.

MAT 214. Processing and Properties of Ceramic Materials (3) spring

General overview of the compositions, properties and applications of ceramic materials. The theory and practice of fabrication methods for ceramics and glasses. Methods of characterization. Selected properties of ceramic materials. Prerequisite: MAT 33. Harmer

MAT 216. Diffusion and Phase Transformations (3) fall

Fundamental diffusion equations; liquid-solid transformations; solid-solid transformations; transformation kinetics; metastable transformations; diffusionless transformations; examples of various transformations in different materials and their effect on properties. Prerequisites: MAT 203, MAT 205. DuPont

MAT 218. Mechanical Behavior of Macro/Nanoscale Materials (3) fall

Elasticity, plasticity, and fracture of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. The roles of defects and size scale on mechanical response. Strengthening and toughening mechanisms in solids. Statics and time-dependent failures from microstructural and fracture mechanics viewpoints. Lectures and laboratories. Prerequisites: MECH 3, MAT 33; MAT 10 or permission of instructor. Vinci

MAT 221. (STS 221) Materials in the Development of Man (3) fall

Development of materials technology and engineering from the stone age to atomic age as an example of the interaction between technology and society. In-class demonstration laboratories on composition and structure of materials. Term projects using archaeological materials and alloys. Course intended for, but not limited to, students in the humanities and secondary science education. Engineering students may not use this course for engineering science or technical elective credit.

MAT 240. Research Techniques (3) fall

Study and application of research techniques in materials science and engineering. Research opportunities, design of experimental programs, analysis of data, presentation of results. Selection of research topic and preparation and defense of research proposal. Restricted to a small number of students selected by the department from those who apply.

MAT 291. Undergraduate Research (3) spring

Application of research techniques to a project in materials science and engineering selected in consultation with the faculty. Normally preceded by MAT 240.

MAT 302. Electronic Properties of Materials (3) fall

The electronic structure of materials, i.e., band and zone theory, is presented from a physical point of view. Electrical conductivity in metals, semiconductors, insulators and superconductors is discussed. Simple semiconductor devices reviewed. Magnetic properties are examined in the context of domain theory and applications are discussed. Optical and dielectric properties of semiconductors and ferroelectrics are considered. Prerequisites: MAT 201, MAT 203. Cheng

MAT 309 (ME 309). Composite Materials (3)

The principles and technology of composite materials. Processing, properties, and structural applications of composites, with emphasis on fiber-reinforced polymers. Lectures and some field trips or laboratories. Prerequisite: MAT 33 or equivalent, MECH 3. Pearson

MAT 310. Independent Study in Materials (1-3)

Provides an opportunity for advanced, independent study of selected topics in materials science and engineering not covered in other formal courses. Prerequisite: consent of department including email from supervisor to department associate chair.

MAT 312. (CHE 312, CHEM 312) Fundamentals of Corrosion (3)

Corrosion phenomena and definitions. Electrochemical aspects including reaction mechanisms, thermodynamics, Pourbaix diagrams, kinetics of corrosion processes, polarization, and passivity. Nonelectrochemical corrosion including mechanisms, theories, and quantitative descriptions of atmospheric corrosion. Corrosion of metals under stress. Cathodic and anodic protection, coatings, alloys, inhibitors, and passivators. Prerequisite: MAT 205, CHM 342, or equivalent of either.

MAT 314. Metal Forming Processes (3)

Mechanical metallurgy and mechanics of metal forming processes. Yield criteria. Workability. Friction and lubrication. Engineering analysis of forging, extrusion, wire and tube drawing, rolling, sheet forming and other processes. Recent developments in metal forming. Prerequisite: MAT 206 or consent of instructor. Credit is not given for both MAT 314 and MAT 414. Misiolek

MAT 315. Physical Properties of Structural and Electronic Ceramics (3)

Structure-property relationships in ceramics. Mechanical behavior including plasticity, hardness, elasticity, strength and toughening mechanisms. Thermal behavior including specific heat, thermal expansion, thermal conduction and thermal shock. Electrical behavior including application of tensors and crystal physics to electroceramics. Prerequisites: MAT 214 or consent of instructor. Harmer

MAT 317. Imperfections in Crystals (3)

The major types of crystal defects and their role in controlling the properties of materials. Point, line and planar defects, their atomic configurations and experimental techniques to study their characteristics. Emphasis on the role of dislocations and grain boundaries in the control of mechanical properties. Prerequisite: MAT 203 or consent of instructor. Rickman

MAT 318. Advanced Mechanical Behavior of Materials (3) Spring

Deformation and fracture mechanics of engineered and natural materials, including metals, ceramics, glasses, polymers, hard tissue, and soft tissue. Mechanical phenomena including anistropic elasticity, strengthening mechanisms, time dependent deformation, fracture toughness, environment-assisted cracking, and fatigue. Emphasis on standard and emerging mechanical characterization techniques, and on modeling of mechanical behavior. Lectures and laboratories. Credit is not given for both MAT 318 and MAT 418. Prerequisites: MAT 218 or equivalent.

MAT 319. Current Topics in Materials Science (3)

Selected topics of current interest in the field of materials engineering but not covered in the regular courses. May be repeated for credit with consent of the department chair. Prerequisite: Consent of department chair.

MAT 320. Analytical Methods in Materials Science (3)

Selected topics in modern analysis and their application to materials problems in such areas as thermodynamics, crystallography, deformation and fracture, diffusion. Prerequisite: MATH 231 or 205. Rickman

MAT 324 (BioE 324). Introduction to Organic Biomaterials

Property, characterization, fabrication and modification of organic materials for biomedical and biological applications; host responses to biomaterials on the molecular, cellular and system level; general introduction to biosensors, drug delivery devices and tissue engineering. Prerequisites: BioE 110 or MAT 204 and consent of instructor. Cheng

MAT 325 (BioE 325). Inorganic Biomaterials (3)

Fabrication methods for biomedical implants and devices. Selection of metals and ceramics with specific bulk and surface physical as well as chemical properties. The role of materials chemistry and microstructure. Biocompatibility. Case studies (dental and orthopedic implants, stents, nanoporous ceramic filters for kidney dialysis). Prerequisites BioE 110 or MAT 33, or consent of instructor. Misiolek

MAT 327. Industrial Project (4)

Restricted to a small group of seniors and graduate students selected by the department from those who apply. Two full days per week are spent on development projects at the plant of an area industry, under the direction of a plant engineer and with faculty supervision. Misiolek

MAT 329. Industrial Project (4)

To be taken concurrently with MAT 327. Course material is the same as MAT 327. Misiolek

MAT 332. Basics of Materials Science and Engineering (3) fall

Physical and chemical principles applied to understanding the structure, properties, selection, fabrication, and use of engineering materials: metals, polymers, ceramics, composites and electronic materials. Case studies of materials used ranged from transportation systems to microelectronic devices. Lectures and individual study assigned by graduate advisor. Prerequisites: Graduate student status and permission of department chair. Not available to students who have taken MAT 33 or equivalent.

MAT 333. (EES 337, CHM 337) Crystallography and Diffraction (3)

Introduction to crystal symmetry, point groups, and space groups. Emphasis on materials characterization by x-ray diffraction and electron diffraction. Specific topics include crystallographic notation, stereographic projections, orientation of single crystal, textures, phase identification, quantitative analysis, stress measurement, electron diffraction, ring and spot patterns, convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED), and space group determination. Applications in mineralogy, metallurgy, ceramics, microelectronics, polymers, and catalysts. Lectures and laboratory work. Prerequisites: MAT 203 or EES 133 or senior standing in chemistry.

MAT 334. (CHE 334) Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis (4) fall

Fundamentals and experimental methods in electron optical techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), conventional transmission (TEM) and scanning transmission (STEM) electron microscopy. Specific topics covered will include electron optics, electron beam interactions with solids, electron diffraction and chemical microanalysis. Applications to the study of the structure of materials are given. Prerequisite: consent of the department chair. Lyman and Kiely

MAT 338. Failure Analysis Reports (3) spring

Application of chemical and mechanical failure concepts, microstructural analysis, and fracture surface characterization to the analysis and prevention of engineering component failures. Conduct laboratory investigations on component failures with written and oral presentations of the results. Prerequisites: Senior standing and MAT 204, MAT 206, MAT 214, and MAT302.

MAT 339. Light Metals (3)

Designing mechanical properties of light metals such as aluminum, beryllium, magnesium and titanium through alloying and processing. In depth analysis of strengthening mechanisms and resulting physical properties. Review of typical casting, deformation, powder metallurgy and machining processes applied to these materials. Recent commercial applications in the construction, packaging, aerospace and automotive industries. Prerequisite: MAT 206 or consent of the instructor. Misiolek

MAT 342. Inorganic Glasses (3)

Definition, formation and structure of glass; common glass systems; manufacturing processes; optical, mechanical, electrical and dielectric properties; chemical durability; glass fibers and glass ceramics. Lectures and laboratories. Prerequisite: MAT 33. Jain

MAT 344. (IE 344) (ME 344) Metal Machining Analysis (3) spring

Intensive study of metal cutting emphasizing forces, energy, temperature, tool materials, tool life, and surface integrity. Abrasive processes. Laboratory and project work. Prerequisite: IE 215 or ME 240 or MAT 206. Misiolek

MAT 345. Powder Metallurgy (3)

Metal powder fabrication and characterization methods. Powder processing including powder compaction, theory of compacting, press and die design, sintering, and hot consolidation. Microstructure and properties of sintered materials and their relationship to processing conditions. Industrial applications. Emerging powder metallurgy technologies. Credit will not be given for both MAT 345 and MAT 445. Prerequisite: MAT 206 or consent of instructor. Misiolek

MAT 346. Physical Metallurgy of Welding (3)

Operational characteristics of welding processes. Application of solidification and solid state transformation theory to understanding microstructural development in welds, and influence of welding on properties. Metallurgical defects in welds. Computational techniques for predicting heat flow and phase transformations in welds of complex engineering alloys. Laboratory demonstrations. Prerequisites: MAT216. DuPont

MAT 348. Materials Science for Electronic Applications (3)

Materials technology for integrated circuit packaging systems. Dielectric, thermal and mechanical considerations; joining methods; resistor and ceramic capacitor materials and incorporation of active devices into packaging systems; multilayer package design and processing. Individualized semester project involving forensic examination of failures using scanning electron microscopy and microprobe analysis. Prerequisite: MAT 201, and MAT 33.

MAT 355. Materials for Nanotechnology (3)

An introduction to the nanoworld and how we observe the nanoworld through transmission electron microscopy. Other topics include: probing nanosurfaces, carbon as a nanomaterial, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, metal clusters, metal nanoparticle preparation, and directed self-assembly of nanoparticles. Also discussed are the thermal, chemical, electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of metal nanoparticles, nanowires, semiconductor nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles. Kiely

MAT 356. Strategies for Nanocharacterization (3)

Lectures describe various nanocharacterization techniques in terms of which technique is best for specific measurements on nanostructures less than 100 nm in extent. Special attention is paid to spatial resolution and detection limits for SEM, TEM, X-ray analysis, diffraction analysis, ion beam techniques, surface techniques, AFM and other SPMs, and light microscopies and spectroscopies. Lyman and Jedlicka

MAT 359. Thin Film Processing and Mechanical Behavior (3)

Metallic, ceramic and glassy films, with thickness less than approximately 1 B5m, formed by gas phase deposition. Thin film applications, vacuum fundamentals, PVD and CVD, models for general thin film growth, epitaxial growth, sources of stress, deformation mechanisms, and mechanical characterization techniques such as substrate curvature and nanoindentation. Prerequisite: MAT 33. Also recommended, but not required, is some experience with mechanics of materials. Vinci

MAT 386. Polymer Nanocomposites (3)

Synthesis, morphology and properties of polymer nanocomposites. Comparisons with traditional particulate composites will be made and models predicting properties will be emphasized. Melt viscosity, mechanical properties, barrier properties and flame retardancy will be discussed. Credit is not given for both MAT 386 and MAT 486. Prerequisite: An introductory polymer course (MAT 204 or MAT 393) or consent of the department chair. Pearson

MAT 388. (CHE 388, CHM 388) Polymer Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (3)

Techniques include: free radical and condensation polymerization; molecular weight distribution by gel chromatography; crystallinity and order by differential scanning calorimetry; pyrolysis and gas chromatography; dynamic mechanical and dielectric behavior; morphology and microscopy; surface properties. Prerequisite: Senior level standing in chemical engineering, chemistry, or materials science and engineering, or permission of the instructor.

MAT 393. (CHE 393, CHM 393) Physical Polymer Science (3)

Structural and physical aspects of polymers (organic, inorganic, natural). Molecular and atomic basis for polymer properties and behavior. Characteristics of glassy, crystalline states (including viscoelastic and relaxation behavior) for single/ and multicomponent systems. Thermodynamics and kinetics of transition phenomena. Structure, morphology and behavior. Prerequisite: Senior level standing in chemical engineering, chemistry, or materials science and engineering, or permission of the instructor.

MAT 396. (CHEM 396) Chemistry of Nonmetallic Solids (3)

Chemistry of ionic and electronic defects in nonmetallic solids and their influence on chemical and physical properties. Intrinsic and impurity-controlled defects, nonstoichiometric compounds, defect interactions. Properties to be discussed include: diffusion, sintering, ionic and electronic conductivity, solid-state reactions, and photoconductivity. Prerequisite: CHEM 187 or MAT 205 or equivalent.

For Graduate Students

The department offers graduate degrees in Materials Science and Engineering at both masters (M.S. and M. Eng.) and doctoral levels (Ph.D.). Specialized masters degree programs are also available, in Photonics, in Polymers, and in Business Administration and Engineering (MBA&E). The M.S. Degree in Photonics is an interdisciplinary degree for broad training in such topics as fiber optics, light-wave communications, and optical materials, to prepare students for work in industry or for further graduate research at the Ph.D. level. The program requires a total of 30 credits of graduate work, including a 15credit core of courses in materials, electrical engineering, and physics. The Polymer Science and Engineering Program offers interdisciplinary M.S. and Ph.D. degrees through several departments, including Materials Science and Engineering. The program includes courses in materials, chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, and mechanical engineering. The MBA&E is an interdisciplinary degree program in business and engineering designed primarily for students with an undergraduate degree in engineering and two years or more of relevant work experience. The curriculum consists of an MBA core and electives (23 credits) and engineering core and electives (18 credits), plus other electives and a project which integrates business and engineering (4 credits). Students wishing to have the engineering core in Materials Science and Engineering may enter this program through the Materials Science and Engineering Department.

Special Programs and Opportunities

The department has established specific recommended programs for the M.S., the M.Eng., and the Ph.D., emphasizing the following areas: metals processing and performance, ceramics and glass processing and properties, electronic and photonic materials and packaging, electron microscopy and microstructural characterization, and archaeometallurgy.

These programs are flexible and often interdisciplinary.

Major Requirements

The requirements are explained in section IV. A candidate for the M.S. completes a thesis, unless fully funded by industry, in which case a thesis is not required. M.S. thesis research normally represents six of the 30 semester hours required for this degree. Candidates for the M.Eng. complete a three-credit engineering project.

A candidate for the Ph.D. prepares a preliminary program of courses and research, providing for specialization in some field (largely through research) in consultation with the adviser. Prior to formal establishment of the doctoral program by the special committee and its approval by the college, the student passes a qualifying examination that must be taken in the first or second year of doctoral work. The department does not require a foreign language. It does require preparation and defense of a research proposal as a portion of the general examination.

Of the courses listed above only those in the 300 series are available for graduate credit. There are many additional offerings in materials under the listings of other departments.

Most graduate students receive some form of financial aid. Several kinds of fellowships and assistantships are available. This type of aid generally provides for tuition, and a stipend. For details of graduate scholarships, fellowships and assistantships, please refer to section IV.

Research Activities

Graduate students conduct their research in facilities located in the Department or the Center for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, or other centers and institutes. The following list describes current Materials Science and Engineering research activities:

Metals Processing and Performance: joining of metals and alloys, laser engineered net shaping, solidification modeling, corrosion and coatings, deformation processing, grain boundary cohesion, bulk metallic glasses.

Ceramics and Glass Processing and Properties: fundamental studies of sintering and grain growth, novel reaction-based processing for bulk and thin film ceramics, microstructure and properties of oxides for environmental coatings, growth of single crystal piezoelectric ceramics, creep and grain boundary chemistry of alumina, dielectric and electrical properties of glasses, corrosion of glass.

Electronic and Photonic Materials and Packaging: electromigration, degradation processes in light-emitting semiconductors, mechanical behavior of thin metal films, reliability of MEMS materials, processing and per formance of advanced solder alloys, polymer packaging materials, glass nanostructure and chemistry, glasses for nonlinear optical applications, transparent glassceramics, photoinduced phenomena.

Microstructural Characterization: transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, nanoscale compositional mapping, cathodoluminescence microscopy and spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction and fluorescence, x-ray microanalysis, electron-loss spectrometry, extended x-ray absorption and electron energy loss fine structure (EXAFS and EXELFS).

Archaeometallurgy: reconstruction of ancient smelting and fabrication processes, artifact analysis using modern analytical methods, history of materials.

GraduateLevel Courses

MAT 401. Thermodynamics and Kinetics (4) fall

Integrated treatment of the fundamentals of thermodynamics, diffusion and kinetics, as related to materials processes including both hard and soft materials. Laws of thermodynamics, conditions of equilibrium, free energies, statistical thermodynamics, thermodynamics of surfaces, bulk and grain-boundary diffusion, nucleation, spinodal decomposition, and reaction kinetics.

MAT 402 (ME 402). Advanced Manufacturing Science (3) spring

The course focuses on the fundamental science-base underlying manufacturing processes, and applying that science base to develop knowledge and tools suitable for industrial utilization. Selected manufacturing processes representing the general classes of material removal, material deformation, material phase change, material flow, and material joining are addressed. Students create computer-based process simulation tools independently as well as utilize leading commercial process simulation packages. Laboratory experiences are included throughout the course.

MAT 403. Structure/Property Relations (4) spring

Structure of materials and relationship to properties. Crystal structures and crystalline defects, structure in biological systems, amorphous materials, microstructure, and relationships to mechanical and other properties.

MAT 406. Solidification (3)

Structure, theory and properties of liquids. Homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation theory and experimental results. Solidification phenomena in pure, single and multiphase materials including the nature of the freezing interface, segregation, constitutional super-cooling, dendritic growth, crystallographic effects, the origin of defects, crystal growing, zone processes. Prerequisite: consent of the department chair. DuPont

MAT 409. Current Topics in Materials (3)

Recent practical and theoretical developments in materials. This course may be repeated for credit if new material is covered. Prerequisite: consent of the department chair.

MAT 414. Metal Forming Processes (3)

Mechanical metallurgy and mechanics of metal forming processes. Yield criteria. Workability. Friction and lubrication. Engineering analysis of forging, extrusion, wire and tube drawing, rolling, sheet forming, and other processes. Recent developments in metal forming. Graduate version of MAT 314 requiring additional assignments. Credit is not given for both MAT 314 and MAT 414. Prerequisite MAT 206 or consent of instructor. Misiolek

MAT 415. Mechanical Behavior of Ceramic Solids (3)

Strength, elasticity, creep, thermal stress fracture, hardness, abrasion and high-temperature deformation characteristics of single- and multicomponent brittle ceramic solids. Statistical theories of strength, static and cyclic fatigue, crack propagation, fracture toughness. Correlation of mechanical behavior, microstructure, and processing parameters. Prerequisite: MAT 218 or consent of the department chair.

MAT 418. Advanced Mechanical Behavior of Materials (3) spring

Deformation and fracture mechanics of engineered and natural materials, including metals, ceramics, glasses, polymers, hard tissue, and soft tissue. Mechanical phenomena including anistropic elasticity, strengthening mechanisms, time dependent deformation, fracture toughness, environment-assisted cracking, and fatigue. Emphasis on standard and emerging mechanical characterization techniques, and on modeling of mechanical behavior. Lectures and laboratories. Graduate version of MAT 318 requiring additional assignments. Credit is not given for both MAT 318 and MAT 418. Prerequisites: MAT 218 or equivalent.

MAT 423. Advanced Transmission Electron Microscopy (4)

The theory and practice of operation of the transmission and scanning transmission electron microscope. Techniques covered include bright field, high resolution and weak-beam dark field, lattice imaging, diffraction pattern indexing and Kikuchi line analysis. The theory of diffraction contrast is applied to the interpretation of electron micrographs. Specimen preparation techniques. Prerequisite: MAT 334 or equivalent. Kiely, Watanabe

MAT 427. Advanced Scanning Electron Microscopy (4)

The theory and practice of operation of the scanning electron microscope and electron microprobe. Techniques covered will include high-resolution scanning, quantitative electron probe microanalysis. Electron beam sample interactions, X-ray spectrometry, and electron optics will be discussed in detail. Prerequisite: MAT 334 or equivalent. Lyman

MAT 430. Glass Science (3)

Definition and formation of glass. Structure of common inorganic (including metallic) and polymeric glass systems. Methods of glass making. Phase separation of devitrification. Physical properties including diffusion, electrical conductivity, chemical durability, and optical and mechanical properties. Special products including glass ceramics, optical fibers, photosensitive glasses, etc. Visit to a glass manufacturing plant may also be included. Prerequisite: MAT 315 or equivalent. Jain

MAT 431. Sintering Theory and Practice (3)

Science and technology of the sintering of solid-state materials. Driving force and variables. Critical review of the sintering models. Coverage of single phase, multiphase and composite systems. Special sintering techniques such as fast firing, rate controlled sintering, hot pressing and transient second-phase sintering. Sintering of specific ceramic and metal systems. Prerequisite: MAT 214 or equivalent. Harmer

MAT 435 Photonic Materials (3)

Scope of photonics, especially in communications. Characteristics of light. Optical properties of metals, semiconductors and insulators. Nonlinear optical properties. Materials for fibers, lasers, detectors, modulators, amplifiers and other components. Prerequisites: MAT 302 or consent of instructor. Jain

MAT 443. (CHEM 443) Solid-State Chemistry (3)

Crystal structure, diffraction in crystals and on surfaces, bonding and energy spectra in solids, dielectrics, surface states and surface fields in crystals. Prerequisites: one course in linear algebra and one course in quantum mechanics. Klier

MAT 445. Powder Metallurgy (3)

Metal powder fabrication and characterization methods. Powder processing including powder compaction, theory of compacting, press and die design, sintering, and hot consolidation. Microstructure and properties of sintered materials and their relationship to processing conditions. Industrial applications. Emerging powder metallurgy technologies. Graduate version of MAT 345 requiring additional assignments. Credit is not given for both MAT 345 and MAT 445. Prerequisite: MAT 206 or consent of instructor. Misiolek

MAT 455. Materials for Nanotechnology (3)

An introduction to the nanoworld and how we observe the nanoworld through transmission electron microscopy. Other topics include: probing nanosurfaces, carbon as a nanomaterial, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, metal clusters, metal nanoparticle preparation, and directed self-assembly of nanoparticles. Also discussed are the thermal, chemical, electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of metal nanoparticles, nanowires, semiconductor nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles. Kiely

MAT 456. Strategies for Nanocharacterization (3)

Lectures describe various nanocharacterization techniques in terms of which technique is best for specific measurements on nanostructures less than 100 nm in extent. Special attention is paid to spatial resolution and detection limits for SEM, TEM, X-ray analysis, diffraction analysis, ion beam techniques, surface techniques, AFM and other SPMs, and light microscopies and spectroscopies. Lyman and Jedlicka

MAT 460. Engineering Project (13)

In-depth study of a problem in the area of materials engineering or design. The study is to lead to specific conclusions and be embodied in a written report. Intended for candidates for the M.Eng. May be repeated for a total of three credit hours.

MAT 461. Advanced Materials Research Techniques (3)

Study of the theory and application of selected advanced techniques for investigating the structure and properties of materials. May be repeated for credit with the approval of the department chair.

MAT 462. Independent Study (1-3)

An intensive study, with report, of a topic in materials science and engineering which is not treated in other courses. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

MAT 482. (CHM 482, CHE 482) Mechanical Behavior of Polymers (3) spring

A treatment of the mechanical behavior of polymers. Characterization of experimentally observed viscoelastic response of polymeric solids with the aid of mechanical model analogs. Topics include time-temperature superposition, experimental characterization of large deformation and fracture processes, polymer adhesion, and the effects of fillers, plasticizers, moisture and aging on mechanical behavior. Pearson

MAT 485. (CHM 485, CHE 485) Polymer Blends and Composites (3) fall

Synthesis, morphology, and mechanical behavior of polymer blends and composites. Mechanical blends, block and graft copolymers, interpenetrating polymer networks, polymer impregnated concrete, and fiber and particulate reinforced polymers are emphasized. Prerequisite: any introductory polymer course or equivalent. Sperling

MAT 486 Polymer Nanocomposites (3)

Synthesis, morphology and properties of polymer nanocomposites. Comparisons with traditional particulate composites will be made and models predicting properties will be emphasized. Melt viscosity, mechanical properties, barrier properties and flame retardancy will be discussed. This course is a version of MAT 386 for graduate students, with additional research projects and advanced assignments. Closed to students who have taken MAT 386. Credit is not given for both MAT 386 and MAT 486. Prerequisite: An introductory polymer course (MAT 204 or MAT 393) or consent of the department chair. Pearson

MAT 490. Thesis. (1-6)

MAT 492. (CHM 492, CHE 492) Topics in Polymer Science (3)

Intensive study of topics selected from areas of current research interest such as morphology and mechanical behavior, thermodynamics and kinetics of crystallization, new analytical techniques, molecular weight distribution, non-Newtonian flow behavior, second-order transition phenomena, novel polymer structures. Credit above three hours is granted only when different material is covered. Prerequisite: CHEM 392 or equivalent.

MAT 499. Dissertation (1-15)

LEHIGH HOME | SITE MAP | SEARCH | CAMPUS DIRECTORY | DIRECTIONS | NEWS | EVENTS | CONTACT LEHIGH

© 2012 Lehigh University. All Rights Reserved. Produced by Communications and Public Affairs.
Emergency Info - Text-only version - Mobile version - Copyright, Terms of Use and Privacy Policy