MEC 115 - Introduction to Polymers

Credits: 3
3 Skills Lab Hours

Description
This course introduces students to manufacturing processes, materials and concepts. Focus areas of the course include the history and environmental impact of various materials, basic polymer chemistry, molecular structure, characterization of materials, safety data sheets (SDS), safety, manufacturing hazards, effect of temperature on materials and additives. These topics are reinforced with hands-on labs and thought provoking activities as well as related internet sites for further student learning.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

List the classifications of polymers.
Describe industry coding in recycling.
Explain the environmental impact of process manufacturing.
Classify various additives and how they may affect the characteristics of materials.
Predict the various problems that may cause quality issues when handling materials and finished products.
Demonstrate the use of tools that measure diameters, radii and angles.
Illustrate a capability study.
Demonstrate proper machine usage by utilizing machine set-up sheets.

Listed Topics

Natural, modified and synthetic plastics
Top ten commercial plastics today
Polymer classifications
Plastic manufacturing hazards
Environmental impact of plastics
SDS Sheets
Chemistry of organic plastics
Molecular structures of hydrocarbon materials
Thermosets and thermoplastics
Additive manufacturing

Reference Materials
Textbook/materials as required by instructor.

Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:

Culture Society and Citizenship
Information Literacy
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Approved By: Dr. Quintin B. Bullock Date Approved: 04/10/2020

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MEC 115 - Introduction to Polymers