Imparte:
Universitat de Girona
The FRP++ combines the diverse expertise of five European Higher Education Institutions with noted educational experience in Composites, namely the University of Minho, University of Girona, the University of Naples – Federico II, the INSA Toulouse and, the University Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier, to offer a programme oriented to a multidisciplinary understanding of the structural composites in a research-driven environment, maintaining close collaboration with industry and an important focus on solving practical problems, to compete in a highly demanding market, such as construction and infrastructures, aerospace and aeronautics, automotive, wind energy, among others, where composites are fundamental.
The FRP++ is a highly specialised Master focusing on structural analysis and design using composite materials. The FRP++ EMJM central objective is to prepare a new generation engineers and/or scientiststo access highly skilled jobs in the market of structural composites applicable to several industries with solid background and in an integrative and multidisciplinary context, with concerns about developing sustainable solutions. Furthermore, students may consider engaging in a further degree of studies towards (PhD) research on the structural composites proficiency level.
The FRP++ Master provides students with advanced knowledge and skills to work and develop a professional career positions in the analysis, the design, and the manufacturing of key industrial sectors, particularly in the construction and infrastructure industries, aerospace and aeronautics, automotive, wind energy, defence, maritime, sports among others, since structural composites are key technological and economic components to address current and future challenges in those industries.
The FRP++ exploits the common denominators that exists in all of these sectors for addressing structural composites, which are increasingly critical. Therefore, the Master addresses the following key areas in structural composites that are not being conveniently addressed in the general curricula of classic Bachelor and Master programs:
Materials and manufacturing processes;
Mechanics and modelling;
Analysis and design;
Inspection and diagnosis, repair and strengthening;
Sustainability and life cycle analysis.
Composite materials, also named as composites or Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) materials, are materials composed of two phases, namely the reinforcement (fibres) and the (polymeric) matrix (see figure below as example of a scanning electron microscopy of a Carbon FRP – CFRP).
Carbon, glass, aramid and basalt are the most used fibres, while polyester, vinylester or epoxy are normally used as matrix. The fibres, with higher resistance, are responsible for the stiffness and strength of the composites, whereas the matrix, with lower resistance, is responsible for the transfer of stresses and protection of the fibres.