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327-4105-00L 4 Credits DR , MSC D-MATL
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Integrity of Materials and Structures

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Thomas Graule, Dr. Michel Barbezat, Dr. Gábor Piskoty
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:21:52

Abstract

The course approaches failures in metallic, ceramic and polymer components as well as structures.

Objective

1) Understanding common failure mechanisms of materials and structures 2) Obtaining knowledge about the methodology of failure analysis 3) Learning to apply the different investigation methods appropriately

Content

STRUCTURES: In most failure cases, the material used is only one of various aspects to be considered. Consequently, successful failure analysis requires a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach. The systematic procedure, which involves the preservation of evidence, followed by establishing and evaluating hypotheses and completed by drawing conclusions, will be explored interactively, based on variegated failure cases. METALS: After a brief overview of the most failure-relevant properties of metallic materials, focusing on steel, different common failure mechanisms and the related investigation approaches will be demonstrated based on case studies from different fields like transportation, machinery and building structures. CERAMICS: Ceramics are used in applications where electrical insulation, resistance to wear, or the ability to withstand high temperatures are needed. Failure mechanisms in ceramic components under operating conditions are analyzed: corrosion due to fluids, erosion due to fluids loaded with particles, hot gas corrosion, creep. POLYMERS: Methodology of failure analysis on polymer materials: system approach, mechanisms like aging in polymers, analysis of thermoplast, thermosets and elastomer failures based on application oriented cases. Team exercises on selected failure cases.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts will be provided prior to lectures.

Literature

Recommended literature will be provided.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
oral 25 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Integrity of Materials and Structures
  • Mon 13:45-15:30 (HCI J 8)
2 h weekly
exercise Integrity of Materials and Structures
  • Mon 15:45-17:30 (HCI J 8)
2 h weekly

Offered In