B1983 - Laboratory of chemistry and science of polymeric materials P

Learning outcomes

The laboratory aims to provide practical knowledge in the field of Chemistry and Polymer Materials Science. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• characterize polymeric materials by determining their main chemical-physical, thermal, and thermomechanical properties;

• compare polymeric materials with a view to quality control of incoming materials;

• select suitable polymeric materials for the production of composites based on their intended application;

• study the curing cycle of thermosetting matrix composite materials in order to optimize their thermomechanical properties;

• characterize manufactured products for quality control purposes;

• support laboratory activities related to research and development of polymeric and composite materials;

• study the aging and durability of polymer composite materials.

Course contents

Practical experiences in the characterization of thermoplastic and thermosetting polymeric materials, their additives, fillers, and particulate and fibrous reinforcements, using the main instrumental techniques. In particular, the activities involve: Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), including Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) mode; Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC); Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA); Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA); viscometry; rheology; Melt Flow Index (MFI); and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).
The practical sessions will take place primarily in the laboratories of the University of Bologna (UniBo), and partially through immersive days hosted by partner companies that have agreed to support the laboratory activities.

Readings/Bibliography

Course slides are available on the University's official repository.

For further study, the following reference is recommended:

AIM – Fundamentals of Polymer Science, Pacini Editore, 1998, Pisa.

Teaching methods

The course is delivered through lectures, practical exercises, and laboratory activities.

Assessment methods

Successful completion of the course will be contingent upon the submission of a technical/summary report on the laboratory activities carried out.

Teaching tools

Lectures are delivered using computer-based video projections. The latest version of the lecture slides can be downloaded from the Virtuale platform.

Students with DSA or disabilities can contact Servizio Studenti con Disabilità e DSA dell’Università di Bologna(http://www.studentidisabili.unibo.it/ [http://http/www.studentidisabili.unibo.it/], Italian only), the Department contact person (Prof. Giorgio Bencivenni, giorgio.bencivenni2@unibo.it [mailto:giorgio.bencivenni2@unibo.it] ) or directly the teacher to address the most convenient approach for accessing teaching materials and supports, and to gain access to all the convenient services and areas of the Departments (i.e. room for frontal lectures).

Office hours

See the website of Stefano Scurti