italian version

Aims :

Basic knowledge of the structure and principal properties of the materials, in particular of the polymers. Basic knowledge on the synthesis and industrial processing of the polymers.

Topics :

Materials classification. The solid state: crystalline and amorphous structure. Materials properties: microstructure, porosity, density, mechanical properties, thermal properties.
Introduction to polymers: monomers, polymers, copolymers. Degree of polymerization and number-average molecular weight. Addition polymerisation. Stereo-isomerism. Polymer structure: amorphous and crystalline state. Structure and properties of the thermoplastic polymers obtained by means of the addition polymerization. Poly-condensation reaction: synthesis of nylon 6,6 and phenol-formaldehyde. Structure and properties of thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers obtained by means of the condensation polymerization. Industrial methods of polymerisation. Processing of thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Creep of polymers. Fracture mechanics of polymers. Aging of polymers. Elastomers: natural rubber and SB rubber; vulcanization process. Industrial fibers.

Textbooks :

W. F. Smith, "Scienza e tecnologia dei materiali", McGraw-Hill.
AIMAT, "Manuale dei materiali per l’ingegneria", McGraw-Hill.

Exam :

Written and oral test on the topics treated during the lectures.

Tutorial Session :

After the lectures and the examinations. Contact the teacher for a different date.