Learning nanotechnology through experimentation: carbon nanotube manufacturing using an electric discharge machine
A novel nanotechnology laboratory experiment for a required junior/senior undergraduate engineering course, Engineering of Manufacturing Processes, is described and implemented. The experiment demonstrates a process of manufacturing carbon nanotubes using a method representing a variation on arc dis...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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De Gruyter
2012-06-01
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| Series: | Nanotechnology Reviews |
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| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1515/ntrev-2011-0012 |
| Summary: | A novel nanotechnology laboratory experiment for a required junior/senior undergraduate engineering course, Engineering of Manufacturing Processes, is described and implemented. The experiment demonstrates a process of manufacturing carbon nanotubes using a method representing a variation on arc discharge. Carbon nanotubes are synthesized in oil by electric discharge machining using two graphite electrodes. The results are compared to a known empirical formula for material removal rate in electric discharge machining. A cost analysis of the process, determining the cost of as produced carbon nanotubes is performed. This 2-h experiment is complemented with a single 2-h lecture on nanotechnology creating a lecture-experiment nanotechnology module. Student learning outcomes for the module are developed, assessed, and analyzed. The results show a significant improvement in students’ knowledge. Student perceptions about nanotechnology, carbon nanotube manufacturing, and the need for life-long learning are assessed. Pedagogical justifications and sustainability of the nanotechnology lecture-experiment module within an undergraduate engineering curriculum are addressed. |
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| ISSN: | 2191-9089 2191-9097 |