Mechanics of Materials

Following studies on engineering mechanics, this course also considers the influence of materials in affecting mechanical behaviour of solids.

This module will first introduce the fundamentals of mechanical properties of materials before studying the effects of loading on solid elements and structures.

The basic concepts of mechanical properties of solids are introduced through stress-strain diagrams of materials together with Hooke’s Law, Poisson’s ratio and shear deformation. The next topics study materials under loading in axial, buckling, torsional and bending modes.  For the bending mode, students will also learn internal forces, bending moment, bending stress and beam deflection. This will lead to an understanding of stress-strain transformation with the use of Mohr’s circle. The module concludes with an overview of fracture mechanics with fatigue and creep.

This course will mainly be conducted through lectures and tutorials/laboratories. There will be one design assignment, two laboratory reports and one quiz as part of continuous assessment. At the end of the trimester, students will need to complete a final examination.