Hardening, Polymers, Properties

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/hardening-polymers-properties

Introduction

### Course Review: Hardening, Polymers, Properties on Coursera If you're looking to deepen your understanding of materials science, especially in the realms of age hardening and polymers, the "Hardening, Polymers, Properties" course on Coursera is an excellent choice. This comprehensive course offers a thorough introduction to both metallic alloys and polymer science, making it ideal for students, professionals, or enthusiasts interested in material engineering. #### Course Overview The course begins with a focus on **age hardening**, a significant method for enhancing the properties of various metals and alloys. You'll learn how to utilize phase diagrams to identify eligible alloys, alongside critical factors that influence nucleation and crystal growth. Transitioning into polymer science, the course delves into the differences between **thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers** and introduces various strengthening mechanisms. The curriculum also tackles the impact of cross-linking on the properties of polymers, highlights major polymer synthesis techniques, and discusses how to select the appropriate polymer for a given application. Furthermore, you'll explore temperature variations and their effects on the structural properties of polymers, with particular emphasis on the importance of the glass transition temperature for both thermal and mechanical performance. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Module 1: Age Hardening Alloys** - Explore age hardening as a technique for material property control, bringing to light its critical significance in engineering applications. 2. **Module 2: Polymers** - Dive into the diverse world of polymers, gaining insight into polymer concepts and synthesis methods that lay the foundation for advanced understanding. 3. **Module 3: Polymer Processing** - Understand the various processing methods used in the creation and manipulation of polymers—integral knowledge for anyone looking to work with these materials in practice. 4. **Module 4: Polymer Behaviors** - Analyze the linking of atomic and crystal structure with thermal and mechanical properties. This module aims to connect theoretical knowledge with practical implications in material selection. #### Course Expectations You can expect a well-structured learning experience with targeted modules that gradually build upon each other. The material is presented in an engaging manner, with a balanced combination of theoretical discussions, practical applications, and visual aids. As the complexity of concepts increases, learners are encouraged to actively apply what they've learned through assignments and quizzes, reinforcing comprehension and retention. #### Why You Should Enroll - **Comprehensive Knowledge**: The course covers a wide spectrum of material science concepts, perfect for engineering students or professionals wishing to revisit core topics. - **Real-World Applications**: Understanding the intricacies of age hardening and polymers will directly benefit those involved in manufacturing, engineering, or design. - **Flexible Learning**: As a Coursera course, you can learn at your own pace, fitting your studies around your personal and professional commitments. - **Expert Instructors**: Benefit from insights and guidance provided by experienced instructors in the materials science field. #### Final Recommendation Overall, I highly recommend the "Hardening, Polymers, Properties" course on Coursera. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, an industry professional, or simply curious about materials science, this course offers essential knowledge and practical skills that will serve as a valuable asset in your academic or professional endeavors. Dive into the world of materials science and unlock new possibilities with this course!

Syllabus

Hardening, Polymers, Properties

This course will introduce age hardening and how to use a phase diagram to identify an alloy that is eligible for age hardening. The key factors that affect nucleation and crystal growth will be investigated. In addition, an introduction to polymer science will be given. The key differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers will be introduced. Strengthening mechanisms will be introduced. We explore what happens to the properties of a polymer as you increase or decrease the extent of cross-linking. major polymer synthesis methods will be shown. We will review polymer selection for various applications. In addition, how structural properties vary with temperature will be presented. We explore the significance of the glass transition temperature of a polymer to its thermal and mechanical properties.

In this module, we will discuss age hardening as a means of controlling the properties of various materials.

In this module, we explore the different kinds of polymers, polymer concepts and methods of polymer synthesis.

n this module, we will examine the different methods used to process polymers.

In this module, we will discuss the relationships between atomic and crystal structure and the thermal and mechanical properties of a material.