BSc Materials Science and Engineering

The unit provides comprehensive coverage of multiphase polymer systems, in particular blends, block copolymers and nanocomposites (larger-scale fibre reinforced composites are covered in MATS 31301). Lecture topics include:

• Overview of the different types of multiphase polymer systems.
• The thermodynamics of liquid-liquid phase separation, Flory-Huggins theory.
• Mechanisms of phase separation; nucleation and growth, spinodal decomposition.
• The advantages of polymer blending. Commercial polymer blends.
• Types of block copolymers (diblock, triblock, multiblock).
• Microphase separation of block copolymers.
• Commercial block copolymers (polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers), reactive moulding of polyurethane elastomers.
• The types of polymer nanocomposites (PNC), with nanoscale reinforcements of 1D, 2D or 3D structure.
• Processing of PNC. Rheology of the polymer-nanofiller blends.
• Structure-property relationships in polymer nanocomposites, using examples of PNC formed with common reinforcements, such as nanosilica, carbon nanotubes, layered silicates or graphene.
• Multifunctional PNC. Electrical, thermal and optical properties of PNC.
• Current applications of PNC in automotive and electronic industries.
• Applications of multiphase polymers and their environmental issues.

The unit aims to:

• Provide the student with an understanding of the structure-property relationships of multiphase polymer systems, the theories that underpin their formation, structure and properties and how applications for these materials stem from their behaviour.

A greater depth of the learning outcomes will be covered in the following sections:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Intellectual skills
• Practical skills
• Transferable skills and personal qualities

Blended learning programme: Including asynchronous activities (including video lectures, self-test quizzes, directed reading) and (live) synchronous activities (including Q&A sessions, quizzes and tutorials).

Canvas – All asynchronous activities, lecture notes, questions sheets and handouts will be available electronically. Synchronous activities will be recorded and will also be available electronically.

• Describe the range of multiphase polymers and their advantages relative to single-phase polymers.
• Explain the principles and theory of phase separation in polymer blends and block copolymers.
• Evaluate the beneficial effects of nanoscale reinforcements.
• Justify of the applications of multiphase polymers and explain their environmental issues.
• Describe the types of nanoparticle fillers.
• Understand the main factors determining the mechanical and functional properties of polymer nanocomposites.
• Give examples of current applications of polymer nanocomposites.

• Assess and interpret data from DMTA in order to determine polymer structure.
• Apply simple models to predict the modulus of polymer blends and polymer nanocomposites.
• Apply simple models to evaluate functional properties of polymer nanocomposites.
• Evaluate X-Ray diffraction data, Scanning and Transmission
• Electron Microscopy images to characterise the structural properties of polymer nanocomposites.

• Solve problems utilising appropriate methods.
• Assess results critically.

Verbal and written

The recommended reading for this unit can be found on the online unit reading list.

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2027 will be £10,050 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £41,900 per annum.

For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our undergraduate student finance pages and our the Department funding pages.