Polymers : rheology and processing

Course content

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

This course aims to give the student a thorough introduction in polymer rheology and polymer processing technology, discussing how the polymer material properties may affect or even limit the processing, as well as how the processing affects the final material properties.

First, the course focuses on the rheology of polymers and how it affects and is affected by their processing. The principles of viscous and viscoelastic flow behaviour are introduced for both shear and extensional flow, and the fundamental flow regimes, their origin, and their link to the macromolecular architecture are discussed. Experimental approaches to measure the rheology of polymer solutions and polymer melts are described, as well as approaches to model them.

Next, the processing of both thermosets, blends and thermoplastics are discussed. For thermosets, the link between the advancing polymerization and the changing rheology is explained for both step and chain growth crosslinking polymerizations, including the technological consequences of gelation and vitrification. The use of rheological and thermal analysis techniques for studying thermoset curing is discussed and illustrated in the lab sessions. In the context of the processing of polymer blends, phase separation, mixing and phase morphologies are discussed, as well as how the blend morphology can be affected during processing.

For thermoplastics, first polymer extrusion is discussed, as it is one of the most used polymer processing methods. This includes estimating the operation point of an extruder and how it is affected by the processing conditions and the visco-elastic behaviour of polymers. Next, the course focuses on injection moulding. Both its fundamental principles and practical issues and solutions are discussed. For the different stages of the process, the link is made between, on the one hand, non-Newtonian flow behaviours, heat transfer and crystallization kinetics, and the PVT diagram, and on the other hand, cosmetic issues, weld lines, flash, residual stresses and warpage.

Rubber technology or alternative topics may be introduced by speakers from industry (seminars).

Objectives (and/or specific learning outcomes)

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

Specific to the course:

Acquire knowledge and understanding of polymer rheology, polymer processing and polymeric materials' properties by means of a systematic study of ‘processing-(structure)-property relations’ (theory).
Be able to apply this knowledge and understanding to material problems and their experimental study (practicals).
Be able to integrate aspects of chemical technology and material science, in this case polymer processing and its link with macroscopic, technological polymer properties.

The theory and the practicals are lectured in English. The student should communicate in English by preference, improving the student’s internationalization.

Prerequisites and Corequisites

Required and Corequired knowledge and skills

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

Teaching methods and learning activities

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

Interactive lectures with powerpoint presentations
Exercises and laboratory sessions

References, bibliography, and recommended reading

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

Digital course material (Required) : Polymers: rheology and processing, Course slides, G. Van Assche, Available on Canvas - VUB
Handbook (Recommended) : Polymer processing and structure development, A. N. Wilkinson, A. J. Ryan, UITVERKOCHT, Springer, 9780792357728, 2008

Contribution to the teaching profile

The official course page for 27-28 can be found at VUB: Polymers: rheology and processing

This teaching unit contributes to the following competences:
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of exact sciences with the specificity of their application to engineering
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of integrated structural design methods in the framework of a global design strategy
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of the advanced methods and theories to schematize and model complex problems or processes
- An integrated insight in chemical process and materials' technology
- Insight in chemistry as a link between process and materials technology
- Conceive, plan and execute a research project, based on an analysis of its objectives, existing knowledge and the relevant literature, with attention to innovation and valorization in industry and society
- Correctly report on research or design results in the form of a technical report or in the form of a scientific paper
- The flexibility and adaptability to work in an international and/or intercultural context
- An attitude of life-long learning as needed for the future development of his/her career

Other information

Additional information

The classes will take place at the VUB Main Campus - Brussels: Campus map | Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Contacts

Prof. Guy Van Assche - guy.van.assche@vub.be
Vrije Universiteit Brussel - Dept. Materials and Chemistry (MACH)
Building G - Room G.9.54
Pleinlaan 2 - 1050 Brussel

phone: +32-485-023728

Campus

Other campus

Evaluation

Method(s) of evaluation

Oral examination

Oral examination

Examination with preparation

Open question with long development