Microtechnology is a highly innovative interdisciplinary field of large importance for society. Investing in knowledge and skills needed for this multi-disciplinary field is expected to be of importance for a broad range of engineering students.

This minor provides an introduction to the latest developments in microtechnology, in terms of processing and applications. It offers students a balanced training, combining relevant theory, practical laboratory skills and dedicated projects, in which students can develop and apply their engineering skills.

 

Upon completion of this course, students will:

-        have knowledge of relevant theoretical concepts from Physics, Chemistry, Process Technology and Material Science to appreciate the field of microtechnology

-        be able to identify the basic processing steps in the fabrication of microtechnology devices

-        have basic understanding of microtechnology applications based on a variety of devices

-        be able to perform hands-on experimental/measurement activities

-        be aware of safety in the field of microtechnology

-        apply engineering methodology in a systematic way

 

The minor consists of the following parts:

-        Introduction on the current and future impact of microtechnology on society

-        A selection of relevant topics from physics, chemistry, process technology, material science and engineering methodology

-        An overview of microtechnology applications and devices

-        Practical project work in groups, combining literature research and hands-on laboratory activities

-        Reporting and presentation of project work

 

Domain of Applied Science (DAS) competences:

• research Level 3: The student translates a problem into a research strategy and performs the research.

Experimentation Level 3: The student sets up experiments under supervision and conducts them unsupervised in a systematic way.

Development Level 3: The student develops or improves by independently creating an approach.

all engineering students with a Propedeuse Diploma

Lecture notes and relevant references will be provided.

Lectures: about 3 hours/week

Contact hours per week for laboratory and project vary.

2 written exams [3 ECTS each = 6 ECTS] (40%)

 

Research Project (including laboratory work, report and presentation) [9 ECTS] (60%)

 

The student receives a passing grade if all interim products have been submitted and the total grade is higher than 5.5.

The exams are held in week 8, the student presentations are held in the 9th week of the block. The resit will be offered tentatively in the 10th week of same block.

This minor is suitable for engineering students who are interested in the semiconductor/microchip industry, and who have affinity with hands-on laboratory projects on engineering at the micrometer scale. Physics education at HAVO-level (or equivalent) is highly recommended.