Introduction to Engineering Materials

Unit code: NEM2102 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit introduces the fundamental principles that connect atomic structure, bonding, and crystal arrangement to the mechanical, thermal, and physical behaviour of engineering materials. Students will explore the microstructural characteristics of metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, and analyse how these influence material performance under different loading and environmental conditions. Key topics include deformation mechanisms in crystalline solids, strengthening processes in metals, and the interpretation of phase and time-temperature diagrams for heat treatment of steels and alloys. Emphasis is placed on understanding structure–property relationships and applying this knowledge to the selection, processing, and optimisation of materials for engineering design, ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable practice aligned with professional engineering standards.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse and interpret the relationship between material microstructure, processing, and resulting mechanical and physical properties;
  2. Evaluate the limitations and suitability of common engineering materials for specific design applications;
  3. Apply systematic decision-making frameworks to select and optimise materials for efficient and sustainable engineering design;
  4. Assess the role of material selection and processing in promoting environmental sustainability and responsible resource use; and
  5. Justify material choices and work collaboratively to present evidence-based recommendations in professional technical reports.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Students will work in groups but present individual components in the team reports. The reports will be used for formative assessment.

Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 30%
Team report and oral presentation on recycling processes and challenges for polymers, ceramics, metals, and composites (Group) (1500 words)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 20%
Demonstration of laboratory skills, and analysis of data (1000 words) (Individual)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
In-class invigilated test (90 mins) (Individual)

Assignment: The assignment includes clearly attributed individual components and milestone submissions to ensure authenticity of contributions. Students work collaboratively to research and analyse material recycling processes and sustainability challenges across key material categories. Each student contributes a defined section and participates in a group presentation, demonstrating teamwork, communication, and applied understanding of sustainable material practices. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Report: The report is conducted under supervised laboratory conditions, with direct observation of performance and submission of individual analyses. Individual laboratory-based report evaluating experimental results on microstructure, mechanical performance, and material behaviour. Students analyse and interpret data using appropriate tools and techniques to connect experimental outcomes with theoretical concepts.

Test: The test is invigilated, featuring controlled conditions to confirm independent understanding and academic integrity and assessing students’ ability to independently apply theoretical and analytical principles of materials science to solve practical engineering problems involving structure–property relationships, deformation, and sustainability.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical Engineering)
NHEM | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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