Introduction to Thermal Analysis: Principles, Techniques and Applications

ECTS/HP: 5 credits

Course code: SBN0010

Educational level: third-cycle course.

Eligibility requirements: The course is open for students admitted to third-cycle studies at LTU.

Entry requirements:
Basic understanding of chemistry, physics, and materials science

Course content:

This course provides an in-depth exploration of thermal analysis principles and techniques used in materials science and engineering. Topics include principles of thermal properties of materials, and applications of techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA), and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA). Emphasis is placed on theoretical foundations, experimental methodologies and data interpretation.

Learning outcomes:

1. Knowledge and Understanding:

"Demonstrate broad knowledge and systematic understanding of the research field" – The course covers various thermal analysis techniques (TGA, DSC, TMA, DMA), providing students with comprehensive knowledge essential for advanced research in materials science.

"Demonstrate familiarity with research methodology" – Through theoretical learning and hands-on lab sessions, students gain proficiency in research methodologies specific to thermal analysis, critical for experimental data interpretation.

1. Competence and Skills:

"Demonstrate the ability to critically, independently, creatively, and with scientific rigor identify and formulate research problems" – In the project and case studies, students are encouraged to analyse real-world applications, fostering independent problem-solving skills.

"Plan and use appropriate methods to conduct research" – The practical labs and case studies offer experience in applying appropriate thermal analysis methods, reinforcing the student's ability to design and execute experiments.

1. Judgement and Approach:

"Demonstrate the ability to make assessments of research ethics" – Throughout the course, students will be exposed to discussions around data integrity and ethical research practices, ensuring they make informed, ethical judgments in their future work.

"Demonstrate insight into the possibilities and limitations of research" – By evaluating different thermal analysis techniques and their applications, students will develop a critical understanding of the limitations and potentials of these methods in materials science research.

This course is designed to strengthen both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, helping students meet the required competencies for advanced research according to the Higher Education Ordinance’s goals for third-cycle studies.

Course methods:

The course will be conducted in a hybrid mode, blending in-person lab and online sessions. We will meet seven times, including an introductory session, where the meetings will include interactive discussions based on pre-prepared questions. Students are expected to prepare in advance by reading the assigned materials before each session. After each meeting, participants must submit written reflections that provide answers to the discussed questions.

Additionally, the course will feature two mandatory laboratory sessions focused on thermal analysis techniques. These lab sessions are required for students who do not have prior experience with the methods. Students will submit a report based on these sessions, detailing the materials, methods, rationale for the chosen approach, data collected, and an evaluation of the results. For students already familiar with at least two thermal analysis techniques and possessing relevant data, they may submit a report based on their prior work following the same format.

Examination form:

The course will ensure that the ILOs are achieved through two main forms of assessment: homework assignments and the final presentation.

Grading scale: Pass/Fail.

Course literature:
"Introduction to Thermal Analysis: Techniques and Applications" by Michael E. Brown

"Principles and Applications of Thermal Analysis" by Paul Gabbott

Education cycle:
Enter 24-11-01 – 24-12-31

Course is given periodically:
Yes, every second year.

Send application to: Hesham Ahmed, hesham.ahmed@ltu.se
Doctoral student enter name, civic registration number, e-mail, Division and Department in the application.

Deadline for application:
Date 24-10-31

Course open for application by doctoral students admitted to other universities than LTU:
No.

Limited number of students:
Yes, 20 students

Tuition:
If the course is allocated resources via internal resource allocation system, the course is free of charge for doctoral students admitted at LTU.

For doctoral students admitted to other universities than LTU, the course examiner, in consultation with the Head of Subject, decides if course fees may be required.

Contact person:
Hesham Ahmed, hesham.ahmed@ltu.se, 0762364686

Examiner:
Hesham Ahmed

Course syllabus decided by:
Lale Andreas, Third-Cycle Programmes Coordinator at CENE

Date of decision:
Date 2024-10-16