4 ECTS credits
115 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4004667ENR for all students in the 2nd semester at a (E) Master - advanced level.
This course aims to give the student a thorough introduction in polymer rheology and polymer processing technology, discussing how the polymer material properties may affect or even limit the processing, as well as how the processing affects the final material properties.
First, the course focuses on the rheology of polymers and how it affects and is affected by their processing. The principles of viscous and viscoelastic flow behaviour are introduced for both shear and extensional flow, and the fundamental flow regimes, their origin, and their link to the macromolecular architecture are discussed. Experimental approaches to measure the rheology of polymer solutions and polymer melts are described, as well as approaches to model them.
Next, the processing of both thermosets, blends and thermoplastics are discussed. For thermosets, the link between the advancing polymerization and the changing rheology is explained for both step and chain growth crosslinking polymerizations, including the technological consequences of gelation and vitrification. The use of rheological and thermal analysis techniques for studying thermoset curing is discussed and illustrated in the lab sessions. In the context of the processing of polymer blends, phase separation, mixing and phase morphologies are discussed, as well as how the blend morphology can be affected during processing.
For thermoplastics, first polymer extrusion is discussed, as it is one of the most used polymer processing methods. This includes estimating the operation point of an extruder and how it is affected by the processing conditions and the visco-elastic behaviour of polymers. Next, the course focuses on injection moulding. Both its fundamental principles and practical issues and solutions are discussed. For the different stages of the process, the link is made between, on the one hand, non-Newtonian flow behaviours, heat transfer and crystallization kinetics, and the PVT diagram, and on the other hand, cosmetic issues, weld lines, flash, residual stresses and warpage.
Rubber technology or alternative topics may be introduced by speakers from industry (seminars).
Course notes via CANVAS
Knowledge and understanding of polymer rheology, polymer processing and polymeric materials' properties by means of a systematic study of ‘processing-(structure)-property relations’ (theory). Application of this knowledge and understanding to rheometrical material problems (practicals).
In the ‘Master of applied sciences and engineering: chemistry and materials’ this course is a contribution to the integrated philosophy of chemical technology and material science, in this case polymer processing and its link with macroscopic, technological polymer properties. The acquired competences are complementary to those of the course ‘Polymers: rheology and processing’.
The theory and the practicals are lectured in English. The student should communicate in English by preference, improving the student’s internationalization.
This course contributes to reaching the following learning objectives.
The Master of Sciences in Chemical and Materials Engineering has in-depth knowledge and understanding of
MA_1 exact sciences with the specificity of their application to engineering
MA_2 integrated structural design methods in the framework of a global design strategy
MA_3 the advanced methods and theories to schematize and model complex problems or processes
MA_17 an integrated insight in chemical process and materials' technology
MA_18 insight in chemistry as a link between process and materials technology
The Master of Sciences in Chemical and Materials Engineering can
MA_5 conceive, plan and execute a research project, based on an analysis of its objectives, existing knowledge and the relevant literature, with attention to innovation and valorization in industry and society
MA_6 correctly report on research or design results in the form of a technical report or in the form of a scientific paper
The Master of Sciences in Chemical and Materials Engineering has
MA_15 the flexibility and adaptability to work in an international and/or intercultural context
MA_16 an attitude of life-long learning as needed for the future development of his/her career
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Oral Exam determines 100% of the final mark.
Within the Oral Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral examination of theory and practicals with extensive written preparation. For more information, see Canvas.
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Chemical and Materials Engineering: PR Profile Materials (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Chemical and Materials Engineering: Profile Materials