Faculty of Engineering

Undergraduate - Unit


print version

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL


FacultyFaculty of Engineering
OfferedClayton Second semester 2012 (Day)
Coordinator(s)Assoc Professor Dan Li/Assoc Professor Udo Bach/Professor George Simon/Dr Qiaoliang Bao


This unit aims to develop an understanding of synthetic methods, properties and applications of nanomaterials and nanofabrication techniques. The nanomaterials include zero-dimensional nanoparticles, one-dimensional nanostructures (nanotubes, nanorods, nanowires and nanofibres) and two-dimensional thin films and nanocomposites. Principles of nanofabrication such as lithography and self-assembly will be introduced. The unit will stress the design of properties and devices based on biomimicry. It will highlight the importance of nanostructured materials in a range of areas such as sensors and energy-related applications.


On completion of this unit, students will:

  1. understand the concepts of nanostructures and be able to relate the structure of nanomaterials to their final properties
  2. develop advanced skills in manipulating these properties based on a thorough understanding of materials nanostructures
  3. obtain a thorough knowledge of engineering applications of nanomaterials in engineering and learn how these materials can be incorporated into useful devices
  4. students will use the biomimetic approach in designing synthetic structures based on nature, and
  5. develop an understanding of some of the new advances lying at the interface of engineering and biology


Projects: 20%, Individual tests: 20%, Lab experiments: 10%
Closed book examination (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor George Simon

Contact hours

2 hours lectures, 2 hours of practice sessions, 1 hour of laboratories and 7 hours of private study devoted to preparation of assignments and independent study per week.


MTE2541 or MSC2011