Aerospace engineering

- Theoretical introduction to laboratory experiments: description of composite materials, thermosetting resin curing process, reading and interpretation of regulations, theory of errors. - Laboratory experiments: preparation of the preform and calculation of the fiber volumetric fraction, measurement of resin viscosity, production of a composite laminate using vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), extraction and cutting of test specimens according to regulations, execution of mechanical tests according to regulations, observation of fracture surface under a microscope, interpretation and presentation of results.

Basic knowledge of the aerospace field, typically acquired by students during the third year of the Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. For active participation in the laboratory, students are expected to have a basic understanding of materials science and technology, as well as solid mechanics. Fundamental skills in reading technical and regulatory documentation and in processing experimental data are also required.

- lecture notes - Process Modeling in Composite Manufacturing by Suresh G. Advani and E. Murat Sozer. MARCEL DEKKER, INC. NEW YORK, 2003

Attendance is mandatory, with a maximum allowance of 5 hours of absence.

The assessment of the laboratory activity consists of a single qualification test, aimed at verifying the skills and competencies acquired by the student in relation to the learning outcomes of the course. Number and type of assessments: A single final evaluation is foreseen, including both practical and oral components, structured as a group presentation followed by an individual discussion. Purpose of the assessment: The assessment is designed to verify the student’s ability to: - describe the experimental activities carried out and the fabrication techniques applied; - analyze and interpret the obtained results; - prepare and present a coherent and complete technical report; - communicate results and conclusions clearly and with appropriate scientific language. Assessment format: The evaluation is conducted orally, through a group presentation followed by an individual discussion with the instructor or examination committee. Timing: The assessment takes place at the end of the laboratory activities, after the submission of the technical report and the preparation of the group presentation. Duration: The overall duration of the assessment is approximately 20–30 minutes per group, including the presentation and discussion. Type of assessment: - Group presentation (collective evaluation of the experimental work performed). - Individual discussion (evaluation of personal understanding and technical competence). Final grading: The outcome of the assessment is expressed as Pass/Fail (Qualified/Not Qualified), based on the quality of the presentation, mastery of technical content, clarity of communication, and critical analysis demonstrated by the student Incoming international students: Incoming mobility students are allowed to take the assessment in English, with the same content, structure, and evaluation criteria as those applied to regular students.

The lessons combine moments of theoretical frontal teaching with extensive hands-on laboratory activities, which represent the core of the learning experience. After a brief explanatory introduction to the planned tasks, students are directly involved in carrying out the experimental tests.