This project aids in the implementation of an undergraduate interdisciplinary curricular program in design with plastics and composites. The program is intended for majors in mechanical, chemical and materials engineering and in chemistry. A major component of the curriculum program is the development of a new laboratory course in Practical Polymer Processing, which includes mechanical and structural design, material and manufacturing process selection, mold construction, component manufacture and final product functional testing. Included in the course is a series of processing experiments designed to introduce students to essential elements of polymer and composite processing appropriate to each discipline.
