Unit of study_

MECH6305: Smart Materials

2026 unit information

Develop an essential understanding of structure-property relationship of smart materials, as well as their applications in practical applications; develop student's capability to design functional structures using smart materials; and provide students an opportunity to learn the new knowledge through project approaches.

Unit details and rules

Managing faculty or University school:

Engineering

Study level Postgraduate
Academic unit Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
? 
None
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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MECH5305
Assumed knowledge:
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Fundamental knowledge in materials science and engineering: 1) atomic and crystal structures 2) metallurgy 3) structure-property relationship 4) mechanics of engineering materials 5) solid mechanics

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Explain the fundamental properties, classifications, and mechanical behaviour of major smart material systems.
  • LO2. Interpret the relationships between material structure, properties, and functional responses to external stimuli, including electrical, thermal, magnetic, optical, and mechanical inputs.
  • LO3. Design and fabricate simple smart material devices or structures that demonstrate sensing, actuation, or energy conversion functions.
  • LO4. Evaluate the performance of smart materials and smart structures through experimental characterisation and analysis of sensing and actuation behaviour.
  • LO5. Communicate the design, fabrication, experimental methods, and performance of smart material systems effectively through written and oral presentations.
  • LO6. Collaborate effectively within a team by contributing responsibly to the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects involving smart materials.

Unit availability

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Session MoA ?  Location Outline ? 
Semester 2 2026
Normal day Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney
Outline unavailable
There are no availabilities for previous years.

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Modes of attendance (MoA)

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