Units / CHE3172
CHE3172 · Nanotechnology and materials 1
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 3Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit introduces the foundation concepts of nanotechnology and nanosynthesis methods, self-assembly of colloids and some characterisation techniques of materials. This unit also covers polymer synthesis and characterisation as well as a number of useful applications of nanotechnology including smart coatings and nanomedicine. The global market and safety associated with nanomaterials and nanotechnology will be described.
Areas of study: Minor: Micro and nano technologies
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Malaysia | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
| Clayton | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mid-semester test | Examination | 20% | Threshold |
| 2 | Written assignment | Written | 10% | Threshold |
| 3 | Assignment presentation | Presentation | 10% | Threshold |
| 4 | Laboratory report | Written | 10% | Threshold |
| 5 | Weekly in-class quiz | Quiz / Test | 10% | Threshold |
| 6 | Final assessment | Examination | 40% | Threshold |
Continuous assessment: 60% Final assessment: 40% This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
Learning outcomes
- Describe the fundamental concepts related to nanotechnology and nanomaterials.
- Evaluate the synthesis methods and characterisation techniques of nanomaterials.
- Describe the principles of supramolecular self-assembly, polymer synthesis and smart coatings.
- Conduct structural characterisation of nanostructured materials.
- Review the literature on nanotechnology-related topics in a teamwork manner.
- Evaluate the ethical and business drivers that underpin the nanotechnology industry.
Workload
The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Practical activities | 24 hours |
| Laboratories | 3 hours |
| Workshops | 24 hours |
| Assessments | 2 hours |
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