MAT373   Surface Degradation and Protection   (10 credits)

Description

This course considers the processes that lead to chemical and mechanical degradation of the surfaces of materials and this can be controlled by a range of surface engineering techniques. In the first part of the course the focus will be to understand the process of electrochemical corrosion of metals and metal oxides, and how electrochemical passivation can be used to prevent corrosion. The use of tools such as Ellingham and Pourbaix diagrams in the prediction of corrosion will be explored, in addition to developing an understanding of the interlinked effects of stress and corrosion on materials. The second part of the course focuses on the role of wear and friction on the degradation of materials, and how these effects can be minimised, for example, by design.

Reading List