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B-TECH in Polymer Science And Engineering at Cochin University of Science and Technology
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Polymer Science and Engineering at Cochin University of Science and Technology Ernakulam?
This Polymer Science and Engineering program at Cochin University of Science and Technology focuses on the comprehensive study of polymers, from their synthesis and characterization to processing and application. With India being a rapidly growing market for plastics, rubber, and specialty chemicals, this program is designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled polymer engineers in various industries. It emphasizes fundamental scientific principles alongside practical technological aspects of polymeric materials.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers with a strong foundation in science, particularly chemistry and physics, seeking to specialize in materials science. It caters to fresh 10+2 graduates aiming for a career in polymer manufacturing, research, and development. Working professionals in related fields looking to gain specialized knowledge or career changers interested in the burgeoning polymer industry in India will also find value in this focused engineering discipline.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in industries like automotive, packaging, textiles, healthcare, and defense. Roles include Polymer Engineer, Process Engineer, Research Scientist, Materials Specialist, and Quality Control Executive in Indian and multinational companies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more, reflecting the high demand for this niche expertise in India''''s industrial landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Core Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on Engineering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Mechanics. These subjects form the bedrock for all subsequent specialized polymer engineering courses. Actively solve problems, attend all lab sessions, and clarify doubts promptly to ensure a robust understanding.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, online tutorials (NPTEL, Khan Academy), practice problem sets, peer study groups, departmental academic support
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for solving complex engineering problems in the polymer industry and excelling in competitive exams or higher studies.
Develop Effective Communication and Life Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the Language and Communication course. Practice public speaking, technical writing, and teamwork. Engage in extracurricular activities to enhance leadership and organizational skills.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, college clubs (debate, technical societies), self-help books, online courses on soft skills
Career Connection
Strong communication is essential for presenting technical reports, collaborating with teams, and excelling in interviews and client interactions in any engineering role.
Master Basic Programming and Computer Applications- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to master basic programming concepts using C, as introduced in the Computer Science course. Understand data structures and algorithms. Utilize CAD software introduced in Engineering Graphics for basic design.
Tools & Resources
Online coding platforms (HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks for beginners), C programming textbooks, CAD software tutorials (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks basics)
Career Connection
Computational skills are increasingly vital in modern polymer engineering for simulation, data analysis, and product design, giving an edge in placements.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Polymer Chemistry and Physics- (Semester 3-5)
Develop a profound understanding of Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Physics, and Material Science. These are the core pillars of the specialization. Actively engage in lab sessions to link theoretical concepts with practical characterization and synthesis.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks, research papers, lab manuals, departmental faculty guidance, polymer science online forums
Career Connection
This foundational knowledge is directly applicable to R&D roles in polymer synthesis, material development, and characterization within industry.
Seek Early Industry Exposure and Internships- (Semester 4-5 breaks)
Begin researching and applying for short-term industrial training or internships, even if informal, during semester breaks. Visit local polymer manufacturing units or research labs to gain practical insights into processing and operations.
Tools & Resources
Departmental industry liaison, alumni network, online job portals (LinkedIn, Internshala), industry association websites
Career Connection
Early exposure helps clarify career interests, builds a professional network, and provides valuable experience that makes resumes stand out during placements.
Participate in Technical Projects and Competitions- (Semester 4-6)
Form teams and participate in inter-departmental or external technical competitions related to materials science, product design, or sustainable solutions. Undertake mini-projects under faculty guidance to apply learned concepts.
Tools & Resources
College technical clubs, innovation cells, national-level engineering competitions (e.g., AICTE hackathons, design challenges)
Career Connection
Project work enhances problem-solving skills, builds a portfolio, and demonstrates initiative and practical application of knowledge to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Research- (Semester 6-8)
Carefully select professional electives aligned with specific career interests (e.g., composites, rubber technology, nanotechnology). Engage in advanced literature review and potentially assist faculty in research projects.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases (Scopus, Web of Science), advanced textbooks, faculty research labs, specialized workshops
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for niche roles in R&D, advanced manufacturing, or prepares you for higher studies/PhD.
Excel in Project Work and Industrial Training- (Semester 7-8)
Approach the mandatory Project Work (Phase I & II) and Industrial Training/Internship with utmost seriousness. Aim for an impactful project that solves a real-world problem or contributes to significant research. Leverage industrial training to gain hands-on experience and build industry contacts.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, industry supervisors, university research facilities, technical documentation tools, project management software
Career Connection
A strong final year project and positive internship experience are often key determinants for securing top placements and professional opportunities.
Comprehensive Placement and Career Planning- (Semester 7-8)
Actively prepare for campus placements, focusing on technical interviews, aptitude tests, and soft skills. Attend workshops on resume building and mock interviews. Explore diverse career paths, including entrepreneurship or higher education.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cell, alumni mentors, online aptitude tests, interview preparation guides, company websites, professional networking events
Career Connection
Proactive and well-rounded preparation ensures a smooth transition from academics to a successful career in the polymer industry or related fields.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per CUSAT CAT prospectus, 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with minimum qualifying marks for admission through CUSAT Common Admission Test.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-100-0101 | Engineering Mathematics I | Core | 4 | Matrices and Linear Systems, Partial Differentiation and Applications, Vector Differentiation and Operators, Vector Integration and Theorems, Multiple Integrals and Applications |
| 19-100-0102 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Classical and Relativistic Mechanics, Wave Phenomena and Optics, Electromagnetism and Maxwell''''s Equations, Quantum Mechanics and Statistical Physics, Solid State Physics and Dielectrics |
| 19-100-0103 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure and Bonding, Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry, Corrosion and Phase Rule, Spectroscopy and Water Technology, Polymer Chemistry and Green Chemistry |
| 19-100-0104 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Force Systems and Equilibrium, Friction and Centroids, Moments of Inertia, Kinematics and Kinetics of Particles, Work-Energy and Impulse-Momentum |
| 19-100-0105 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Engineering Drawing, Orthographic Projections of Points, Lines, Planes, Projections and Sections of Solids, Development of Surfaces, Isometric Projections and CAD Basics |
| 19-100-0106 | Introduction to Civil & Mechanical Engineering | Core | 3 | Basic Building Materials and Construction, Surveying and Environmental Engineering, IC Engines and Power Plants, Manufacturing Processes and Machine Elements, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning |
| 19-100-0107 | Language and Communication | Core | 3 | Phonetics and Public Speaking, Reading Comprehension and Note-Making, Writing Skills and Report Writing, Business Communication and Letter Writing, Presentation Skills and Group Discussions |
| 19-100-0108 | Engineering Workshop I | Lab | 1 | Carpentry Shop Operations, Fitting Shop Operations, Welding Shop Operations, Sheet Metal Operations, Foundry and Forging Practice |
| 19-100-0109 | Engineering Physics Lab | Lab | 1 | Interference and Diffraction Experiments, Electrical Circuit Measurements, Optical Instrument Handling, Properties of Matter Experiments, Semiconductor Device Characteristics |
| 19-100-0110 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Volumetric Analysis Techniques, Water Quality Parameter Determination, Instrumental Methods of Analysis, Preparation of Organic and Inorganic Compounds, pH Metry and Potentiometry |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-100-0201 | Engineering Mathematics II | Core | 4 | Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms and Inverse Transforms, Fourier Series and Integrals, Partial Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics |
| 19-100-0202 | Engineering Economics and Management | Core | 3 | Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, Demand, Supply and Market Structures, Cost Analysis and Break-even Analysis, Financial Management and Investment Appraisal, Principles of Management and Organization |
| 19-100-0203 | Engineering Electronics | Core | 3 | Semiconductor Devices: Diodes and Rectifiers, Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs), Field Effect Transistors (FETs) and MOSFETs, Operational Amplifiers and their Applications, Digital Logic Gates and Boolean Algebra |
| 19-100-0204 | Engineering Electrical | Core | 3 | DC Circuits and Network Theorems, AC Fundamentals and Circuits, Three-Phase Systems, Transformers and Electrical Machines, Electrical Safety and Wiring |
| 19-100-0205 | Introduction to Computer Science | Core | 3 | Computer Fundamentals and Organization, Operating Systems and Networking, Introduction to C Programming Language, Control Structures, Arrays, Functions in C, Pointers, Structures, File Handling in C |
| 19-100-0206 | Professional Ethics & Life Skills | Core | 3 | Introduction to Engineering Ethics, Moral Theories and Professionalism, Ethical Dilemmas and Case Studies, Life Skills: Communication and Self-Management, Time Management and Leadership |
| 19-100-0207 | Engineering Workshop II | Lab | 1 | Advanced Carpentry and Joinery, Fitting and Assembly Practice, Welding Techniques and Safety, Machine Shop Practice: Lathe and Drilling, Smithy and Foundry Practice |
| 19-100-0208 | Engineering Electrical & Electronics Lab | Lab | 1 | Verification of Electrical Network Theorems, Characteristics of Diodes and Transistors, Rectifier Circuits and Wave Shaping, Op-Amp Applications, Basic Logic Gate Experiments |
| 19-100-0209 | Computer Science Lab | Lab | 1 | Basic C Program Development, Conditional Statements and Loops, Functions and Array Manipulation, String Operations and Structures, File Input/Output Operations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0301 | Engineering Mathematics III | Core | 4 | Complex Numbers and Analytic Functions, Complex Integration and Residue Theorem, Vector Spaces and Subspaces, Linear Transformations and Eigenvalues, Inner Product Spaces and Orthogonalization |
| 19-503-0302 | Polymer Chemistry | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Polymers and Classification, Addition Polymerization Mechanisms, Condensation Polymerization Mechanisms, Copolymerization and Block Copolymers, Stereochemistry and Polymer Architecture |
| 19-503-0303 | Material Science | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure and Bonding in Solids, Crystal Structures and Imperfections, Diffusion in Solids and Phase Diagrams, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Electrical, Optical, and Magnetic Properties |
| 19-503-0304 | Organic Chemistry | Core | 3 | Nomenclature and Isomerism, Reaction Mechanisms and Intermediates, Hydrocarbons: Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Functional Groups: Alcohols, Aldehydes, Acids, Aromatic Compounds and Stereochemistry |
| 19-503-0305 | Mechanical Operations | Core | 3 | Size Reduction and Separation, Mixing and Agitation of Fluids, Filtration and Centrifugation, Sedimentation and Flotation, Material Handling Equipment |
| 19-503-0306 | Polymer Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Synthesis of Polymers by Addition Methods, Synthesis of Polymers by Condensation Methods, Determination of Monomer Conversion, Characterization of Polymers (Viscosity), Preparation of Resins and Adhesives |
| 19-503-0307 | Organic Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Qualitative Analysis of Organic Compounds, Preparation of Organic Compounds, Purification Techniques: Recrystallization, Distillation, Determination of Melting Point/Boiling Point, Chromatographic Separation Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0401 | Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | First Law of Thermodynamics and Energy Balance, Second Law of Thermodynamics and Entropy, Thermodynamic Cycles and Heat Engines, Properties of Pure Substances and Mixtures, Chemical Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibrium |
| 19-503-0402 | Polymer Physics | Core | 3 | Polymer Molecular Weight Determination, Polymer Solutions and Characterization, Glass Transition and Crystalline Melting, Mechanical Properties of Polymers, Rheology and Viscoelasticity of Polymers |
| 19-503-0403 | Physical Chemistry | Core | 3 | Chemical Kinetics and Reaction Rates, Surface Chemistry and Adsorption, Colloids and Macromolecules, Electrochemistry and Conductance, Spectroscopy and Photochemistry |
| 19-503-0404 | Fluid Flow Operations | Core | 3 | Fluid Statics and Manometry, Fluid Dynamics and Bernoulli''''s Equation, Flow Through Pipes and Friction Factor, Pumps, Compressors, and Flow Meters, Non-Newtonian Fluids and Fluidization |
| 19-503-0405 | Basic Polymer Technology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Polymer Processing, Extrusion Process and Equipment, Injection Molding and Related Processes, Blow Molding and Thermoforming, Compression and Transfer Molding |
| 19-503-0406 | Polymer Physics Lab | Lab | 1 | Determination of Polymer Viscosity, Density and Specific Gravity Measurements, Mechanical Testing of Polymers, Thermal Properties of Polymers, Moisture Content Analysis |
| 19-503-0407 | Physical Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Chemical Kinetics Experiments, Conductometric Titrations, Potentiometric Titrations, Adsorption Isotherm Studies, Spectrophotometric Analysis |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0501 | Heat Transfer | Core | 4 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer: Forced and Natural, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchangers and Design, Heat Transfer with Phase Change |
| 19-503-0502 | Polymer Additives | Core | 3 | Introduction to Polymer Additives, Plasticizers and Stabilizers (Heat, UV), Antioxidants and Flame Retardants, Fillers and Reinforcements, Colorants, Processing Aids, Coupling Agents |
| 19-503-0503 | Polymer Compounding | Core | 3 | Compounding Principles and Equipment, Compounding Process and Formulation, Mixing and Dispersion, Rheology of Polymer Melts, Compound Testing and Quality Control |
| 19-503-0504 | Chemical Reaction Engineering | Core | 3 | Reaction Kinetics and Rate Laws, Batch Reactor Design, Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors (CSTR), Plug Flow Reactors (PFR), Multiple Reactions and Reactor Combinations |
| 19-503-0505 | Polymer Testing and Characterization | Core | 3 | Mechanical Testing (Tensile, Flexural, Impact), Thermal Analysis (DSC, TGA, DMA), Spectroscopic Techniques (FTIR, NMR), Microscopic Techniques (SEM, TEM, AFM), Electrical and Optical Properties Testing |
| 19-503-0506 | Heat Transfer Lab | Lab | 1 | Conduction Heat Transfer Experiments, Convection Heat Transfer Experiments, Radiation Heat Transfer Experiments, Performance Evaluation of Heat Exchangers, Boiling and Condensation Studies |
| 19-503-0507 | Polymer Testing Lab | Lab | 1 | Tensile and Flexural Testing of Polymers, Impact Strength Testing (Izod, Charpy), Hardness and Abrasion Resistance Testing, Thermal Analysis using DSC/TGA, Melt Flow Index (MFI) Determination |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0601 | Mass Transfer | Core | 4 | Molecular Diffusion and Fick''''s Law, Gas-Liquid Operations (Absorption, Stripping), Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Solid-Fluid Operations (Adsorption, Leaching), Drying and Humidification |
| 19-503-0602 | Rubber Technology | Core | 3 | Natural Rubber and its Properties, Synthetic Rubbers and their Types, Rubber Compounding Ingredients and Vulcanization, Rubber Processing (Mixing, Milling, Extrusion), Rubber Product Manufacturing and Testing |
| 19-503-0603 | Polymer Reaction Engineering | Core | 3 | Kinetics of Polymerization Reactions, Reactor Design for Step-Growth Polymerization, Reactor Design for Chain-Growth Polymerization, Emulsion and Suspension Polymerization, Molecular Weight Distribution Control |
| 19-503-0604 | Polymer Processing | Core | 3 | Advanced Extrusion Techniques, Advanced Injection Molding Processes, Compounding and Mixing Equipment, Polymer Recycling and Degradation, Troubleshooting in Polymer Processing |
| 19-503-0605 | Polymer Composites (Professional Elective I - Example) | Elective | 3 | Introduction to Polymer Composites and Classification, Reinforcement Fibers (Glass, Carbon, Aramid), Matrix Materials and Interfacial Adhesion, Manufacturing Processes for Composites, Properties and Applications of Composites |
| 19-503-0606 | Mass Transfer Lab | Lab | 1 | Experiments on Diffusion, Distillation Column Performance, Gas Absorption and Stripping, Liquid-Liquid Extraction Studies, Drying Characteristics of Solids |
| 19-503-0607 | Polymer Processing Lab | Lab | 1 | Operation of Single Screw Extruder, Operation of Injection Molding Machine, Compounding on Two-Roll Mill, Film Blowing and Sheet Extrusion, Blown Film Properties Testing |
| 19-503-0608 | Mini Project | Project | 1 | Problem Identification and Literature Review, Methodology Design and Experimental Planning, Data Collection and Preliminary Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Demonstration of Project Outcome |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0701 | Environmental Science & Engineering | Core | 3 | Environmental Pollution (Air, Water, Soil), Solid Waste Management and Treatment, Hazardous Waste Management, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Sustainable Development and Green Technologies |
| 19-503-0702 | Polymer Blends and Alloys (Professional Elective II - Example) | Elective | 3 | Thermodynamics of Polymer Blending, Miscibility and Immiscibility in Blends, Compatibilization Techniques, Morphology and Phase Behavior of Blends, Properties and Applications of Polymer Blends |
| 19-503-0703 | Nano Polymer Technology (Professional Elective III - Example) | Elective | 3 | Introduction to Nanomaterials and Nanopolymers, Synthesis of Polymer Nanocomposites, Characterization of Nanocomposites, Applications of Nanopolymers, Safety and Environmental Aspects of Nanomaterials |
| 19-503-0704 | Open Elective I | Elective | 3 | Specific topics vary based on the chosen open elective from other departments or general interest areas., Examples include Management, Marketing, Robotics, Renewable Energy, etc. |
| 19-503-0705 | Industrial Training / Internship | Project/Internship | 2 | Practical exposure to industrial operations, Application of theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, Problem-solving and decision-making in industry, Report preparation and presentation of findings, Professional skill development |
| 19-503-0706 | Project Work (Phase I) | Project | 1 | Project Selection and Problem Definition, Extensive Literature Survey, Formulation of Project Objectives, Development of Methodology and Experimental Design, Preliminary Design and Feasibility Study |
| 19-503-0707 | Process Control Lab | Lab | 1 | Introduction to Process Instrumentation, Characteristics of Control Valves, PID Controller Tuning Techniques, Control Loop Simulations, Data Acquisition Systems |
| 19-503-0708 | Computer Aided Polymer Design Lab | Lab | 1 | Introduction to CAD Software for Polymer Design, Design of Polymer Products using CAD, Simulation of Polymer Flow in Molds, Material Selection and Database Usage, Optimization of Product Design Parameters |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-503-0801 | Industrial Safety and Quality Control | Core | 3 | Industrial Safety Management and Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Accident Prevention, Safety Audits and Regulations, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Total Quality Management (TQM) and ISO Standards |
| 19-503-0802 | Mould and Die Design (Professional Elective IV - Example) | Elective | 3 | Principles of Mould Design, Injection Mould Design: Feed Systems and Cooling, Ejection Systems and Mould Materials, Extrusion Die Design, Blow Mould Design and CAD/CAM in Mould Design |
| 19-503-0803 | Polymer Structure and Properties Relationship (Professional Elective V - Example) | Elective | 3 | Molecular Architecture and Polymer Properties, Amorphous and Crystalline States of Polymers, Glass Transition and Melting Behavior, Mechanical Properties and Molecular Structure, Electrical, Thermal, and Optical Properties |
| 19-503-0804 | Open Elective II | Elective | 3 | Specific topics vary based on the chosen open elective from other departments or general interest areas., Examples include Entrepreneurship, Marketing Analytics, Renewable Energy Systems, etc. |
| 19-503-0805 | Project Work (Phase II) | Project | 5 | Execution of Experimental Work, Comprehensive Data Analysis and Interpretation, Discussion of Results and Findings, Formulation of Conclusions and Recommendations, Thesis Writing, Presentation, and Viva-voce |
| 19-503-0806 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Viva-Voce | 2 | Assessment of overall engineering knowledge, Oral examination covering core and specialized subjects, Understanding of fundamental concepts, Problem-solving ability, Communication of technical ideas |
