The course provides a basic introduction to the atomic structure of metals and how the structure is affected by alloying and the presence of various imperfections and defects. Atomic bonding and common crystal structures existing in metals are explained. The course would be of interest to persons needing to review the fundamental concepts of atomic structure or to learn them for the first time.

Topics: Definitions of grain, grain boundary, creep, and polymorphism Microstructures and characteristics of alloys The three types of microscopic imperfection in crystalline structures Slip in crystals and how it occurs The four types of bulk defects occurring in crystals Point, line, and interfacial imperfections in the crystal structure Effects of grain structure size and grain boundaries on metal behavior Body-centered cubic, face-centered cubic, and hexagonal crystal structures Common characteristics of some structural alloys, including type 304 stainless steel.

Intended audience: for civil, construction, structural, nuclear, and mechanical engineers. 

Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy