Unit information: Mechanical performance of composites in 2017/18

Unit name	Mechanical performance of composites
Unit code	AENGM0014
Credit points	10
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52)
Unit director	Professor. Partridge
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None.
Co-requisites	None.
School/department	Department of Aerospace Engineering
Faculty	Faculty of Engineering

Description including Unit Aims

This unit forms part of the taught component of the EngD programme in Composites Manufacture. The purpose of the unit is to introduce the experimental test methods used to evaluate the stiffness and strength properties of laminated composites under a range of mechanical loadings. The development and use of international test standards is given, in relation to the requirements of parameter identification for QA, design and modelling purposes. The unit will contrast the use of coupon measurements and data with mechanical tests on representative structural elements.

The aim of this unit is to:

• Give an overview of the range of mechanical tests available to characterise the mechanical properties of laminated composites.

Intended Learning Outcomes

The students will be able to:

1. Select suitable methods for the experimental determination of stiffness and strength of coupon samples
2. Be aware of the factors affecting accuracy and validity of experimental data obtained from such tests
3. Be aware of international test standards, know where to find them and demonstrate ability to use them

The learning outcomes align to A1 of the UK-SPEC.

Teaching Information

This unit is taught through a combination of lectures, lab demonstrations and class exercises on data analysis.

Assessment Information

Written assignment (100%)

Reading and References

• “Fundamentals of fibre reinforced composite materials” by A R Bunsell and J Renard, IoP

• “Engineering Mechanics of Composite Materials” by I M Daniel and O Ishai , OUP

• “An introduction to Composite Materials” by D Hull and T W Clyne, 2nd edition, CUP