What is it about?

Textile materials are those made of interlocking bundles of yarns (fibres) that are often made by techniques such as  weaving, knitting, felting, bonding, braiding and more. Its applications can be extensively found in clothing, and manufacturing of composite materials.

Composites are materials produced from 2 or more constituent materials that have unique physical and chemical properties. Examples include:

• Reinforced plastics (e.g., fibre glass)
• Reinforced concrete, composite wood (e.g., plywood)
• Ceramic & metallic matrices (e.g., heat shields)
• Carbon fibre composites (e.g., high performance structures in aviation/space, bridges)

Degree / Research skills (depends on how you specialise):

• Manufacturing techniques (e.g., textile assembly & resins)
  
• Material testing techniques (e.g., tensile, stress forces)
  
• Software:
  • Python (general programming)
  • MATLAB (lab processing & modelling)
  • Solidworks or other CAD (computer aided design)

Other skills:

• Research skills: literature, hypothesis, methodology, interpretation of results, discussion and conclusion
  
• Problem solving skills (similar to engineering)
  
• Team and presentation skills

Tips for taking this course

About yourself (my recommended traits):

• Similar to many engineering degrees, enjoy physics, maths and chemistry
• Be interested in technological advancements facilitated by materials and their manufacturing/design
• Be comfortable problem-solving – likely the most important trait to have

Preparation for university resources:

• Follow YouTube channel: Real engineering
• Read about novel research in material science: Nature Materials
• Participate or become familiar with some engineering competitions: EBEC

Scientific careers

• Academic research
• Modelling scientist
• Data scientist
• Manufacturing design
• Lab technicians
• Material testing
• Programmers

Other careers

• Consultancy
• IT specialists
• Financial modelling