Principles of Materials Science

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The course is mandatory for students who enter the master program without being trained in materials science, and in particular polymer science, and the physico-chemical nature of polymeric materials. As such the underpinning science of the multidisciplinary elements of polymeric material science, covering mainly synthesis, characterization and properties, is generated; a prerequisite to allocate the contents of the advanced, most often elective, courses of the program. Four pillars establish the contents of the course, being (i) chemical structure (microscopic); identification and synthesis; (ii) characterization of polymers; (iii) phase structure and morphology; (iv) macroscopic properties of bulk polymers. Description of skills training during the course: Besides the theory encompassed in the lectures, students will be trained in lab and presentation skills. Furthermore, students will learn to methodologically design experiments, select and use the right analytical tools, and assess scientific papers and each other critically.