CHM3180 · Materials chemistry

Overview

The unit describes the structure, properties and synthesis of biomaterials, macromolecules, and 'smart' inorganic materials, which are designed to carry out a range of sensing or active functions. Includes: biopolymers and biomineralisation in plants and animals; mimicry of biological systems; properties of everyday materials such as polypropylene and polyurethane and the link between their properties, structure and synthesis; properties of inorganic and metal-organic solids such as conductivity, magnetism, and porosity; theory and use of X-ray crystallography for determining solid-state structures. Principles of controlled radical polymerisation such as RAFT that is widely used in industry to synthesize polymers of certain molecular weights are introduced. In addition, ionic liquids as 'new generation' liquid materials are introduced. The unit also offers an opportunity to learn about a fast emerging field of alternative resources of energy such as solar cells, advanced batteries and fuel cells.

Areas of study: Chemistry

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify the link between polymer structure and physical properties;
2. Understand the chemistry of ionic liquids;
3. Demonstrate the connection between properties of conducting, magnetic and porous materials and their inorganic structure;
4. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the theory of X-ray crystallography;
5. Carry out organic and inorganic material synthesis in a laboratory environment;
6. Apply characterisation techniques to both organic and inorganic materials;
7. Demonstrate skills in the use of modern information technologies and data analysis, and in the written and oral presentation of scientific data.

Workload

Three 1-hour workshops, one hour directed independent study and the equivalent of 3 hours of laboratory activity per week

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.