Learning Experiences
Day 1
Being our first time here at MSE, it is really a wonder that we did not get lost and managed to arrive to the briefing on time. We first met each other in the E learning studio - like minded people intertested in the field of defence materials. There, we are introduced to the intriguing field of material science and engineering. In school, we're taught basic sciences like Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. However, this is superceeded by applied sciences (such as Materials Sciences) which is an integration of the basic sciences used in practical situations. Thus, this is really an eye-opener for us as we are able to appreciate the materials that we have always taken for granted.
The safety induction briefing taught us varied ways to prevent common laboratory haphazards - through a safety video by the chief safety and health officer of NTU. After which, we had a safety quiz. Contrary to popular belief, the safety quiz was not that easy whatsoever. For example, we have to dilute concentrated acid by pouring acid into water but not the other way around - which we were considered lucky to not figure it out the hard way. We passed the test and was issued with our very own access card.
We met Jason, our supervisor, who is a fellow food-lover. We wasted no time into exchanging views and he shared insights of the various eateries around NTU that was worth a try. He is very approchable and it made our conversations light and enjoyable. We spent the rest of the day discussing in the student recreation room which conveniently housed coffee stations to our delight. Day 2 awaits...
Day 2
Early in the morning we went on a culinary adventure to seek out the best breakfast in NTU. Based on insider knowledge, Quap cafe proved itself to be one of the best places to dine (actually, it was just the nearest to the Research Techoplaza). We kick started the day with a lovely presentation by Dr Liu regarding syntactic foams as a solution to lighten defence materials whilst retaining mechanical properties.
This has abstract but real implications - no more complaints about heavy backpacks for instance. Suspending microspheres into hardening Epoxy resins aims to reduce the material density of conventional polymers. Though, admittedly, there are several trade-offs in doing so. Where tensile strength is compromised, weight and electrical conductivity is reduced which suits the need of, say, combat engineers.
We then have a hands-on sesson in making such ploymers and the weight difference from conventional Epoxy is astounding. We have yet to obtain mechanical test results from our materials. Lunch was yet another opportunity for us to explore the culinary landscape of NTU - and indeed, Jason proves to be the best tour guide for our tastebuds. And now, we find ourselves left in general wonderment of what is to become the breakfast venue for Day 3....
We met Jason, our supervisor, who is a fellow food-lover. We wasted no time into exchanging views and he shared insights of the various eateries around NTU that was worth a try. He is very approchable and it made our conversations light and enjoyable. We spent the rest of the day discussing in the student recreation room which conveniently housed coffee stations to our delight. Day 2 awaits...
Day 2
Early in the morning we went on a culinary adventure to seek out the best breakfast in NTU. Based on insider knowledge, Quap cafe proved itself to be one of the best places to dine (actually, it was just the nearest to the Research Techoplaza). We kick started the day with a lovely presentation by Dr Liu regarding syntactic foams as a solution to lighten defence materials whilst retaining mechanical properties.
This has abstract but real implications - no more complaints about heavy backpacks for instance. Suspending microspheres into hardening Epoxy resins aims to reduce the material density of conventional polymers. Though, admittedly, there are several trade-offs in doing so. Where tensile strength is compromised, weight and electrical conductivity is reduced which suits the need of, say, combat engineers.
We then have a hands-on sesson in making such ploymers and the weight difference from conventional Epoxy is astounding. We have yet to obtain mechanical test results from our materials. Lunch was yet another opportunity for us to explore the culinary landscape of NTU - and indeed, Jason proves to be the best tour guide for our tastebuds. And now, we find ourselves left in general wonderment of what is to become the breakfast venue for Day 3....
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