The course introduces the student to the following topics: structure of materials and
defects in solids; diffusion processes in solid state; chemical composition and phase
transformations; mechanical properties of metals; properties and applications of metal
alloys, ceramics, polymers, composites and biomaterials: and mechanisms of degradation
of materials. Methodologies for material selection in engineering applications is also
emphasized. In addition to lectures, students will carry out lab activities and practical
sessions to solve real problems, which will be fundamental and mandatory to a better
understanding of the concepts covered in the lectures