Composite materials are multi-phase materials obtained by combinations of fibre/particle reinforcements, polymeric matrices, laminates, and combinations thereof to attain synergistic material properties that the individual components cannot attain. The physical and chemical properties of composites require specific designs in structure, morphology, phase, shape, size, distribution, and spatial arrangement.

The main objective of this course is to empower students with the skills needed for the design, manufacture, and analysis of composite materials. Learning objectives will focus on functional composite materials and related material properties, including thermal, electrical, mechanical, and structural viewpoints.

Flipped learning and team based learning have been incorporated towards more effective student learning. Less emphasis will be placed on mathematical evaluation on more on problem-based learning, design intents, and applied performance.

Upon the successful completion of this course, you (student) would be able to:

1. Describe structure and properties of natural and composite fiber reinforced materials.
2. List the major advantages of composites over monolithic materials.
3. Compare the advantages and limitations among ceramic, carbon, and organic fibers structural composites
4. Compare and understand the differences between thermoset and thermoplastic composites.
5. Describe some of the fiber surface and fiber-matrix interfacial treatments employed.
6. Rank the mechanical properties of matrices by material, geometry, and design.
7. Describe the relationships of resin/reinforcement interfaces and their impact on composite failure.
8. Apply criteria of cost, modulus, stress mode, and application to justify selection of thermoset matrices.
9. Prepare and integrate mold, resin, and fibers for specific composite geometries.
10. Apply criteria of cost, modulus, stress mode, and application to justify selection of thermoplastic.
11. Describe the sustainable advantages and manufacturing limitations of thermoplastic composites.
12. Identify the types of metal matrix composites and their most common matrix/ fiber combinations.
13. List the common methods of manufacturing and major applications of metal matrix composites.
14. Summarize the types of ceramic matrix composites and their most common matrix/ fiber combinations.
15. Compare the composite matrices of metal vs. ceramic matrix composites.
16. Match the types of carbon/carbon composites and nanocomposites with the extreme products and environments they are targeted for.
17. Summarize the types of fiber metal laminates, their most common fabrication combinations, and primary applications.
18. Evaluate two real-world cases studies that led to product innovation or resulted in a catastrophic failure chain.

This course introduces composite materials at a more advanced level.

1. Structural composite materials (reinforcements, interfaces, polymer matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites, and ceramic matrix composites)
2. Non-structural composite materials (bio-application, electric and optical application, thermoelectric applications)

The listing below comprises the foundational readings for the course and more up-to-date relevant readings will be provided when they become available.

• Krishan K. Chawla, Composite Materials. 4th Edi on, Springer Press, 2019 (ebook)