Fundamentals of Civil Engineering Materials module (CE31009)

You will learn about the basic engineering characteristics of construction materials. Your learning will have an emphasis on their durability and environmental impact.

You will examine mechanisms of deterioration. This will lead you to explore the design considerations involved in limiting deterioration rates. These will include materials selection against design specifications per BS and CEN standards.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about the basic engineering and durability characteristics of key construction materials. You will also learn about their selection/specification for specific construction work
• learn about the environmental implications of the use of materials in construction.
• learn how quality control is applied during material production and specification procedures
• learn about deterioration mechanisms and the protection of materials in the built environment
• study the effect of fire on the main structural materials
• learn about the importance of environmental impact and sustainability. This will be specific to the manufacture and use of materials

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• specify the use of different materials given a specific structural requirement. You will be able to do so to allow safe, economical and environmentally responsible construction.
• specify an appropriate corrosion and/or fire protection system for a particular steel structure
• select a combination of mortar and masonry units for a particular exposure/building application
• specify the correct grade of timber and preservation system for a particular exposure
• link design requirements to concrete performance through the appropriate use of materials
• contribute effectively to the assessment of the quality of concrete during production in existing structures
• identify how a project is likely to impact the environment through the materials used, and suggest ways in which impact could be reduced

Assignments / assessment

• exam (100%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• in-person lectures
• laboratories
  • corrosion of metals