4 ECTS credits
110 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4023620ENR for all students in the 1st semester at a (E) Master - advanced level.
This course aims to give an insight in the design of lightweight composite structures. Combining theoretical lectures, practical exercises and hands-on lab sessions, the course gives a broad view on all aspects related to lightweight composite structures, ranging from material level (material choice, composition, manufacturing) to structural level (including the basics of the mechanics of composite structures as well as the applicable standards for their design). Moreover, as the main course titular has 30 years of industrial experience in the sales, development and production of composites, business aspects will also be intrinsically present throughout the course.
The content of the lectures is structured as follows:
The introduction will position composites in the total scope of structural materials, both from a market and materials properties perspective. The constituting raw materials and the different composite material types will be reviewed. Also the various composites manufacturing methods with their main applications will be discussed.
Subsequently the elastic behavior of composites will be analyzed on 3 different levels : (i) microscopically at the fiber-matrix level, (ii) macroscopically at the ply level and (iii) at the full composite level with classical lamination theory. Next, the failure modes and strength predictions will be discussed, again at the various levels.
Next to polymer matrix composites, also an introduction to inorganic matrix composites will be given. Their distinctive mechanical behaviour, design, manufacturing and applications will be discussed.
A number of real engineering calculations and their applicable codes, will be reviewed together with the students. While demonstrating the broad variety of end use markets, still special attention will go to building and construction, including a full composite passive house. The various options to connect composites will be discussed. Finally, real applications will be made tangible by a visit to a composites manufacturing plant.
In the final seminars we will discuss the potential of composites for sustainable construction. Environmental aspects as well as all the other material properties that are vital to the successful application of composites will be discussed, based on several real examples.
The practical sessions combine exercises and lab sessions:
The exercises will give insight in the application of the theory of mechanics of composites for the design of composite elements and structures.
In the lab sessions, the students will gain hands-on experience in manufacturing and mechanically testing composite elements. They will learn how to analyse and interpret experimental results, and formulate conclusions based on experimental observations.
Digital course material: Lightweight Composite Structures, Canvas.
Handbook (optional): Engineering Mechanics of Composite Materials, Ishai & Daniel, , Oxford University Press, ISBN 978-0195150971
After successful fulfilment of the course, the student has following specific competences:
The student has a comprehensive insight in all aspects of composite materials, which allow the student to start developing successful engineering applications of composites, including particularly composite structures for construction.
The student understands the basics of the mechanical behavior of composites to calculate elastic properties of composites and predict failure. The student is aware of the applicable codes for the design of composite structures.
The course Lightweight Composite Structures contributes to the following program outcomes:
The Master in Engineering Sciences has in-depth knowledge and understanding of
integrated structural design methods in the framework of a global design strategy
the advanced methods and theories to schematize and model complex problems or processes
The Master in Engineering Sciences can
reformulate complex engineering problems in order to solve them (simplifying assumptions, reducing complexity)
correctly report on research or design results in the form of a technical report or in the form of a scientific paper
collaborate in a (multidisciplinary) team
The Master in Engineering Sciences has
a creative, problem-solving, result-driven and evidence-based attitude, aiming at innovation and applicability in industry and society
consciousness of the ethical, social, environmental and economic context of his/her work and strives for sustainable solutions to engineering problems including safety and quality assurance aspects
the flexibility and adaptability to work in an international and/or intercultural context
The Master in Engineering Sciences: Civil Engineering can
design (conceptually and quantitatively), model, realize and manage concrete, steel and composite structures in the context of buildings and civil engineering infrastructures
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Other Exam determines 100% of the final mark.
Within the Other Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral exam : 70% of the grading (14/20)
Written assessment: Reporting on practical sessions: 30% of the grading (6/20)
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Civil Engineering: Standaard traject (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Architectural Engineering: Default track (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Civil Engineering: Standaard traject (BRUFACE)
Master of Architectural Engineering: default