MATERIALS ENGINEERING

metal processing, characterization of materials, transport phenomena, phase

transformation, material modeling and design, provide a strong basic for
students of materials engineering.

Materials science, the core subject studied in this department, is

basically an interdisciplinary field involving the properties of
matter and its applications to various areas of science and
engineering. This science investigates the relationship between the
structure of materials at atomic or molecular scales and their
macroscopic properties. Therefore, it involves elements of applied
physics and chemisty. The most recent topic in this field is
nanotechnology. Materials science plays an important role in
forensic engineering and failure analysis. In addition, it also deals
with fundamental properties and characteristics of materials.

In the fourth year, students are required to complete a specific final project
on metals, ceramics, polymers, or composites.

Materials engineers develop ways of processing metals, ceramics, and polymers,

converting them into useful products. Metallurgy, the science of metals, is a major
component of materials science. Other materials covered in this field are ceramics
and polymers or plastics. Metallurgical engineers, a subspecialty of materials
engineers, work primarily in industrial area, particularly in the iron and steel
industries. Some work with other metals such as aluminum or copper. Metallurgical
engineers are also employed in industries that make machinery and other products
using metal such as automobiles, aircrafts, and electrical equipments. Some work for
government agencies or colleges and universities. Materials engineers use complex
equipment, including scanning electron microscopes, X-ray machines, and
spectrographs. They use the latest scientific and technological findings in their work.
Another sub specialization is the physical metallurgical engineers. They work to
develop new alloys to meet various demands. Physical metallurgical engineers also
develop production processes that include melting, casting, alloying, rolling, and
welding. They design and supervise processes to produce structural steel, wire, or
aluminum sheets. Sometimes they are involved in processes that use these metal
goods in the manufacturing of other finished products.
In terms of education, to satisfy the requirements, materials engineering
students should spend considerable amount of time in the laboratory to
conduct experiments with materials. Basic and advanced subjects such as

Material Engineering Department organizes several exhibitions and

seminars related to the progession of materials engineers. The main
objective of these events is to introduce the profession to the community.
Some of the events are Material Fair, an exhibition of companies in relation
to materials science and engineering; SENAM, a national seminar in the
field of science and engineering; and INSTRUCT (International
Microstructure Competition and Exhibition), an activity that aims to share
knowledge on microstructure. One latest innovative product of Material
Engineering students is the composite made from natural materials
(pineapple and palm fiber). The students won the third place in the Tanoto
Research Award.