Failure Analysis Lab

Catalog description

This course will cover the laboratory techniques required to carry out responsible, thorough approach to failure analysis of polymer materials and products. In polymer product failure, the root cause analysis requires the engineer to consider material science (composition and degradation), mechanical design and loading, processing history, and user interaction with the product. This requires a disciplined and interdisciplinary approach to problem solving. In this course, techniques such as microscopy, FTIR, and mechanical testing will be used strategically to develop data-driven approach to failure analysis. Real product failures, including recycled materials and degraded natural products, will be used to ensure the student develops relevant experience applying laboratory techniques to real-life failure analysis.