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Structural Materials

Selection and Economics

5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Based on 1 rating
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Thomas Eagar, Jessica Sandland, and Donald Baskin

From skyscrapers to transportation infrastructure, structural materials dominate the human landscape. Learning the principles that govern their selection is essential for any aspiring or practicing engineer.

This engineering course will introduce you to the key principles of structural materials selection through a practical curriculum rooted in the real world. The principles taught are general enough to be applied across many domains. Key points are emphasized with interesting examples and anecdotes from industry and academia.

Read more

From skyscrapers to transportation infrastructure, structural materials dominate the human landscape. Learning the principles that govern their selection is essential for any aspiring or practicing engineer.

This engineering course will introduce you to the key principles of structural materials selection through a practical curriculum rooted in the real world. The principles taught are general enough to be applied across many domains. Key points are emphasized with interesting examples and anecdotes from industry and academia.

This course benefits aspiring engineers and students with no previous experience as well as the seasoned professional.

Image (c) Eagar, Thomas

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Externalities of materials selection
  • Material price, cost and abundance
  • Properties, limits and ratio analysis of structural materials

Syllabus

Lecture 1: Introduction to externalities of materials selection, comprising social, political, economic, military, cultural, environmental and other effects.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for those new to structural materials as well as seasoned professionals
Offers practical examples throughout the curriculum to illustrate key concepts
Discusses societal, economic, and environmental impacts of material selection, giving a comprehensive view of the topic
Taught by three tenured professors with extensive experience in structural materials
Covers diverse materials, such as steel, aluminum, and titanium, making it relevant for various industries
Provides a generalizable framework for studying structural materials, making it useful in many domains

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Holistic structural materials selection & economics

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and unique perspective on structural materials selection by integrating economic and manufacturing considerations alongside traditional material properties. Students frequently praise Professor Eagar for his clarity and engaging delivery, making complex topics accessible through real-world examples. However, some reviewers feel that while providing a solid foundation and overview, the course lacks practical depth and detailed case studies needed for advanced application, functioning more as a survey than a deep dive. Assignments and quizzes are generally seen as fair.
Quizzes and assignments test understanding.
"The quizzes tested understanding well."
"Quizzes were okay..."
"The quizzes were straightforward."
"Assignments were challenging but fair."
Examples help connect theory to practice.
"Professor Eagar is very clear and provides great real-world examples."
"Key points are emphasized with interesting examples and anecdotes from industry and academia."
"The examples were engaging."
"This course helped me connect theoretical knowledge with real-world engineering choices."
Professor Eagar is clear, knowledgeable, and engaging.
"Excellent course! Professor Eagar is very clear and provides great real-world examples."
"Instructor is knowledgeable."
"Professor Eagar is an excellent lecturer."
"Professor Eagar is brilliant and explains complex ideas simply."
Integrates economic and manufacturing aspects.
"The economic aspects were particularly insightful, linking material choice to market realities."
"Loved this course. The focus on economics and manufacturing considerations alongside material properties was unique and very useful..."
"Fantastic course for understanding the broader context of materials engineering, not just properties but also why certain materials are chosen based on cost and environmental factors."
"Provides a valuable framework for thinking about materials selection beyond just strength/stiffness. The economic perspective is key."
Overview is solid, but deeper practice is needed.
"The theoretical parts were well explained, but I felt the practical application was lacking. It gave a good overview, but for an engineer..."
"Needed more case studies or detailed problem-solving exercises. Some concepts were rushed."
"It provides a decent overview, but you'll need to supplement with other resources for practical depth. It's a survey, not a deep dive."
"I expected more detailed examples relevant to modern engineering projects. It felt a bit dated."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Structural Materials: Selection and Economics with these activities:
Review basic engineering mechanics concepts
Strengthen foundational understanding of engineering mechanics concepts to support learning in this course.
Browse courses on Engineering Mechanics
Show steps
  • Review concepts of stress, strain, and deformation
  • Practice solving simple mechanics problems
Read 'Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction'
Provides a deep dive into the applications and properties of materials that will be further explored within the course.
View Materials Science and Engineering: An... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Chapter 1: Basic Concepts
  • Chapter 2: Structure of Materials
  • Chapter 3: Mechanical Properties
Create flashcards on key material properties
Improve memorization and recall of essential material properties, enhancing understanding.
Browse courses on Material Properties
Show steps
  • Gather information on key material properties
  • Create flashcards with questions and answers
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Watch MIT OpenCourseWare videos on material selection
Explore real-world scenarios where material selection plays a crucial role, enhancing understanding of the course concepts.
Browse courses on Material Selection
Show steps
  • Watch 'Introduction to Material Selection' (video lecture)
  • Watch 'Case Study: Material Selection for a Bicycle Frame' (video lecture)
Build a small-scale structure using different materials
Gain hands-on experience with material selection and construction, reinforcing theoretical knowledge.
Show steps
  • Gather materials such as wood, cardboard, or plastic
  • Design and build a simple structure
Join a study group to discuss course concepts
Engage in discussions and share perspectives, deepening comprehension of course material through peer learning.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or form one with classmates
  • Schedule regular study sessions
Solve practice problems on material properties and selection
Reinforce understanding of quantitative aspects of material selection, improving problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Material Properties
Show steps
  • Solve problems related to stress-strain relationships
  • Solve problems related to material failure criteria
Design a project using appropriate structural materials
Integrate knowledge of material properties and selection into practical design tasks, solidifying understanding.
Browse courses on Structural Design
Show steps
  • Identify the design requirements and constraints
  • Research and select appropriate materials
  • Develop a design concept

Career center

Learners who complete Structural Materials: Selection and Economics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Metallurgical Engineer
A Metallurgical Engineer designs new alloys for use in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to optimize their properties for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Metallurgical Engineer
Materials Scientist
A Materials Scientist researches and develops new materials for use in various industries. They study the properties of materials and how they can be improved for specific applications. This course would help you understand the fundamental principles of materials science and how it is applied in the development of new materials.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and builds infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them safely and efficiently. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs and builds machines and other mechanical systems. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create products that are safe, efficient, and reliable. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
An Aerospace Engineer designs and builds aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace systems. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create products that are safe, efficient, and reliable. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer
Chemical Engineer
A Chemical Engineer designs and builds chemical plants and other chemical processes. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create products that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer
Mining Engineer
A Mining Engineer designs and operates mines to extract minerals from the earth. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to extract them safely and efficiently. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Engineer
Petroleum Engineer
A Petroleum Engineer designs and operates oil and gas wells. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to extract oil and gas safely and efficiently. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer designs and operates systems to protect the environment. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create systems that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer
Nuclear Engineer
A Nuclear Engineer designs and operates nuclear power plants. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create systems that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nuclear Engineer
Materials Management Analyst
A Materials Management Analyst develops and implements strategies for managing the flow of materials within an organization. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them efficiently. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Management Analyst
Purchasing Manager
A Purchasing Manager is responsible for采购ing goods and services for an organization. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to negotiate the best prices for them. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Purchasing Manager
Inventory Manager
An Inventory Manager is responsible for managing the flow of goods within an organization. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to store them safely and efficiently. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Inventory Manager
Quality Control Inspector
A Quality Control Inspector is responsible for ensuring that products meet quality standards. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to test them for defects. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Control Inspector
Product Designer
A Product Designer designs and develops new products. They must understand the properties of different materials and how to use them to create products that are safe, efficient, and desirable. This course would help you understand how different materials behave under various conditions and how to select the right materials for specific applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Featured in The Course Notes

This course is mentioned in our blog, The Course Notes. Read one article that features Structural Materials: Selection and Economics:
50 Online Courses for the New Year: What Will You Learn in 2019?
5 minute read

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Structural Materials: Selection and Economics.
Cover image
Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering
Save
Widely adopted textbook commonly used across academic institutions for teaching structural materials selection. It is an essential reference for both students and industry professionals.
Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering:...
Paperback
$$$
Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering:...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering
Save
This comprehensive textbook provides foundational knowledge and an overview of structural materials in the context of materials science and engineering.
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Paperback
$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Ring-bound
$$$$
Cover image
Product Design and Development
Save
Provides an overview of the economic factors involved in product design and development, including material selection and cost considerations.
Product Design and Development
Paperback
$$$
Product Design And Development, 7th Edition
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Corrosion Resistance of Steels, Nickel Alloys, and...
Save
This classic book provides a thorough understanding of corrosion and its impact on structural materials, offering strategies for prevention and protection.
Corrosion Resistance of Steels, Nickel Alloys, and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Mechanical Design of Machine Elements and Machines
Save
Explores the causes of material failures in mechanical design, providing insights for understanding and preventing material failures in structural applications.
Mechanical Design of Machine Elements and Machines:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Mechanical Design of Machine Elements and Machines:...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Technologies
Save
Provides an overview of sustainable materials processing and manufacturing, covering aspects such as material selection and environmental considerations.
Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing...
Hardcover
$$$$
Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Advanced Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineers
Save
Provides a fundamental understanding of polymers, which are commonly used as structural materials in various industries.
Advanced Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineers
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Metal Matrix Composites in Industry
Save
Provides an overview of composite materials, which are increasingly used for structural applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio.
Metal Matrix Composites in Industry: An...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Materials and the Environment
Save
Explores the environmental impact of materials, providing guidance for eco-informed material selection.
Materials and the Environment: Eco-informed...
Paperback
$$
Materials and the Environment: Eco-informed...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
The Mind of an Engineer
Save
Provides insights into the thought process and problem-solving techniques of engineers, which can be beneficial for aspiring engineers.
The Mind of an Engineer
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
2 to 3 hours per week for 3 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Instructors
Thomas Eagar
Jessica Sandland
Donald Baskin
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for those new to structural materials as well as seasoned professionals
Offers practical examples throughout the curriculum to illustrate key concepts
Discusses societal, economic, and environmental impacts of material selection, giving a comprehensive view of the topic
Taught by three tenured professors with extensive experience in structural materials
Covers diverse materials, such as steel, aluminum, and titanium, making it relevant for various industries
Provides a generalizable framework for studying structural materials, making it useful in many domains
Featured in The Course Notes
Read one article that features this course, Structural Materials: Selection and Economics from our blog, The Course Notes:
50 Online Courses for the New Year: What Will You Learn in 2019?
5 minute read
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