Unit information: Mechanical performance of composites in 2021/22

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. Allegri
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

Teaching will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous sessions, which may include lectures, practical activities supported by drop-in sessions, problem sheets and self-directed exercises.

Assessment Information

Written assignment (100%)

Resources

If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.

If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. AENGM0014).

How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks, independent learning and assessment activity.

See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.

Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit. The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.