Cellular Polymers: Structure, Properties, Processing, Applications (edX)

Cellular polymers are integral part of daily life. These unique materials make our life safer, more sustainable, or simply more comfortable. Their diversity is reflected by various applications such as thermal insulation panels, crash absorbers, mattresses, transport packaging or bike helmets. Often referred to as polymer foams, these materials also play a vital role in mastering our future challenges such as climate protection or health of the population.

But what makes these materials unique? What does cellular mean and how does it impact the characteristics? How to manufacture these structures on a macroscale and still controlling delicate morphologies on a micro- or even nanoscale? Which application areas are emerging in recent past and which future growth can we expect? How can cellular polymers contribute to our sustainability targets?

This practice-oriented MOOC will provide answers to all these questions. In a multidisciplinary approach, you will understand the structure of cellular polymers, you will connect the dots between structure and properties. Learning about processing of polymer foams will empower you to selected and design appropriate manufacturing routes. Finally, we will transform the knowledge gained into current and future application areas.

You will navigate through nine well-structured chapters in this course. Our interactive videos provide all the theoretical background and practical skills you need to successfully work in this emerging field. The course is complemented with multiple examples, interactive quizzes and exciting exams.

What you'll learn

- Key concepts of cellular materials

- Structural features

- Mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties

- Manufacturing technologies

- Applications of cellular materials

Syllabus

Chapter 1 “Polymers as Matrix materials”

Chapter 2 “Structure of Cellular Materials”

Chapter 3 “Mechanical Properties - Basics“

Chapter 4 “Mechanical Properties - Refinements”

Chapter 5 “Thermal and Acoustic Properties”

Chapter 6 “Manufacturing Routes I”

Chapter 7 “Manufacturing Routes II”

Chapter 8 “Applications – Mechanically”

Chapter 9 “Applications – Insulation and Interaction”