Materials Science for Design

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of this course, students will:
  
  
• Understand the relationship between material properties and product design decisions.
  
• Be familiar with common classes of materials (metals, polymers, ceramics, composites) and their key characteristics.
  
• Gain an understanding of the structure-property-processing-performance relationships in materials.
  
• Be able to identify and classify materials based on their mechanical, thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties.
  
• Understand how to apply basic material selection processes using design requirements.
  
• Be able to assess the environmental impact of materials and manufacturing processes through a life-cycle perspective.
  
• Be familiar with sustainable and circular design principles, including recycling, re-use, and repair strategies.
  
• Be able to disassemble simple products and identify the materials, components, and manufacturing processes used.
  
• Understand how to repurpose salvaged components into new functional prototypes.
  
• Be able to work collaboratively in a team to design, fabricate, and test a working product prototype.
  
• Gain practical experience using basic workshop tools and equipment for cutting, shaping, and assembling materials.
  
• Be familiar with safe workshop practices and responsible material handling.
  
• Be able to communicate their design process and material choices through sketches, documentation, and presentations.

For further information see School of Product Design on the departments and faculties page .