The properties of any material help determine its ultimate usefulness to society. We can modify and manipulate properties by processing materials in different ways to control their structure. This class will examine mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of materials-what they mean, how they depend on structure, how to measure them, how to change them, and how to analyze the measurements. The course includes both a lecture and a lab. MSE 2090 required as a pre- or co-requisite.

A study of special subjects related to developments in materials science under the direction of members of the staff. Offered as required under the guidance of a faculty member.

Provides a fundamental understanding of a broad spectrum of techniques utilized to characterize properties of solids. The methods used to assess properties are described through integration of the basic principles and application. Methods more amenable to analysis of bulk properties are differentiated from those aimed at measurements of local/surface properties. MSE 3670 or equivalent, or a solid state materials/physics course.

Analyzes the structure and thermodynamics of surfaces, with particular emphasis on the factors controlling chemical reactivity of surfaces; adsorption, catalysis, oxidation, and corrosion are considered from both theoretical and experimental viewpoints. Modern surface analytical techniques, such as Auger, ESCA, and SIMS are considered. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

Special topic courses in Materials Science and Engineering

This course introduces state-of-the-art 3D printing and additive manufacturing techniques for metals, polymers, ceramics, and other materials. Students will be familiarized with both the fundamental science and industrial process, and learn critical limitations and current development efforts to resolve existing challenges. The course will develop a basic understanding for future engineers in working with existing additive manufacturing systems.

Emphasizes the fundamental principles of transmission electron microscopy and illustrates its capabilities for characterizing the internal structures of materials by diffraction, imaging and spectroscopic techniques; includes weekly laboratory exercises. Prerequisite: MSE 6010 or instructor permission.

Develops the student's literacy in aluminum and titanium alloys used in the aerospace and automotive industries. Considers performance criteria and property requirements from design perspectives. Emphasizes processing-microstructure development, and structure-property relationships. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

We discuss how soft matter science, a new and growing area of materials science and engineering, underpins everyday cooking and haute cuisine. The goal is to use cooking to educate students about the fundamental concepts and behavior of soft materials. The benefit is that students will be able to interrelate cooking techniques and recipes to physical, chemical, and biological transformations in food.

Introduction to classical atomic-level simulation techniques (molecular dynamics, Metropolis and kinetic Monte Carlo). The basic concepts, capabilities and limitations of the methods are discussed, an overview of the state-of-the-art is provided, and examples of recent success stories are considered. The emphasis is on getting practical experience in designing and performing simulations. Prerequisite: 3rd year standing or instructor permission. Prerequisite: 3rd year standing or instructor permission.