Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - PHYS 864 G100

Structural Analysis of Materials (3)

Class Number: 6021

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Permission of instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The application of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x-ray diffraction techniques to the study of the structure of materials. Hands-on instruction about the operation of a TEM and x-ray diffractometers is provided. The basic theory required for analyzing TEM and x-ray images and diffraction data is described.

COURSE DETAILS:

Prerequisites:
Senior undergraduate level experimental or theoretical interest in the topic.

Objectives:
To introduce the structural analysis of materials using x-rays and electrons. Focus will be on those materials of major interest of the class, including crystalline and amorphous systems, inorganic and organic. The experimental techniques, software applications, and instrumentation will be discussed.

Labs:
Students will be required to propose one experiment, carry it out through simulations (software) and/or via a hands-on project, and submit a report.

Lecture Topics:
What structure are we considering?
Electron and x-ray scattering from what?
Instrumentation capabilities available
Imaging and diffraction data
Simulation techniques
Spectroscopy applications (STEM, EDS, EELS)


Grading

  • Labs 50%
  • Homework 30%
  • Final 20%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

E-copy through the library:
Transmission Electron Microscopy: A Textbook for Materials Science Williams, David B ; Carter, C. Barry
Boston: Springer 2009

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.