MSE470

Physical Metallurgy

Phase transformations and hardening mechanisms in metallic systems. Nucleation, diffusion-controlled growth, spinodal decomposition and martensitic reactions. Strengthening mechanisms based on two-phase microstructure. Thermal stability.

Level Undergraduate
Terms Offered Winter
Prerequisites MSE350 (enforced)
Textbook Phase Transformations in Metals & Alloys: Porter/Easterling

Course Objectives


  1. To teach students the principles of physical metallurgy.

  2. To teach the application of thermodynamics and kinetics to metals and alloys.

  3. To teach students to understand microstructures of metals and how they arise from solidification and are modified by mechanical working and heat treatment.

  4. To teach the students the nature and properties metallic alloys use in a range of applications.

Course Outcomes


  1. To teach students the principles of physical metallurgy.

  2. To teach the application of thermodynamics and kinetics to metals and alloys.

  3. To teach students to understand microstructures of metals and how they arise from solidification and are modified by mechanical working and heat treatment.

  4. To teach the students the nature and properties metallic alloys use in a range of applications.

Assessment Tools


  1. Frequent homework assignments

  2. Project

  3. Two (2) mid-term exams and final exam

Course Topics


  1. Overview of metallic systems.

  2. Crystallography of metallic systems.

  3. Thermodynamics of phases.

  4. Binary and ternary phase diagrams.

  5. Solidification.

  6. Diffusion, nucleation and growth, coarsening.

  7. Classes of phase transformations.

  8. Grain boundaries and interfaces.

  9. Recovery, recrystallization and grain growth.

  10. Light Alloys- Al and Mg.

  11. Titanium alloys, nickel alloys, copper alloys, ferrous alloys, refractory alloys, precious alloys.

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