76066 - Applied Material Science

Academic Year 2026/2027

  • Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Podiatry (cod. 8479)

    Also valid for First cycle degree programme (L) in Orthopaedics Techniques (cod. 5915)

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the module, students will understand the fundamentals of the structure and behavior of materials of specific interest, as well as the degradation mechanisms under specific conditions of use. They will also understand the materials used to design and manufacture orthoses and prostheses, and their interactions with the human body. They will be able to choose the most suitable material for their profession.

Course contents

The main topics of the course are :

- Introduction to materials science and technology

- Physical, chemical, mechanical, and technological properties of materials used in podiatry and orthopedics

- Natural materials

- Polymeric materials and main manufacturing processes

- Biomaterials: definitions, applications, and legislation in the biomedical field

- Main mechanisms of material degradation and fracture

- Tools for the critical selection of the most suitable materials for specific medical devices in podiatric and orthopedic applications

- Tools for critical analysis of scientific literature

Readings/Bibliography

Teaching materials provided by the instructor and available on the Virtual Learning Platform

Teaching methods

The course carries 2 ECTS credits, with lessons in-person and will be complemented by critical reading and discussion of relevant scientific articles pertaining to the topics covered in class.

Assessment methods

Assessment for this module consists of: 1. An oral examination based on a short essay/project on a topic chosen by the student; 2. A multiple-choice test covering the course contents.

The final grade for this module will contribute to the overall grade obtained in the other modules of the Integrated Course.

 

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Projector, computerr, and digital applications supporting interactive teaching.

Office hours

See the website of Sabrina Valente

SDGs

Good health and well-being

This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.