98876 - Laboratory of Inorganic Materials

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to provide students with the knowledge required for the synthesis and design of inorganic materials, including those with high application potential, as well as the main techniques used for their characterization. Particular emphasis will be placed on ceramic materials. Among the main characterization techniques covered in the course there are X-ray diffraction, microscopy, and methods for measuring the mechanical properties of materials.

Course contents

The course combines classroom-based theoretical lectures with practical laboratory activities aimed at providing students with an in-depth understanding of the preparation, characterization, and applications of inorganic materials with high application potential.

The course also includes laboratory activities, mainly focused on ceramic materials, carried out at local industrial facilities. During these activities, students will be introduced to the main methods for the synthesis and characterization of ceramic materials, with particular emphasis on their mechanical, compositional, and structural properties. A brief introduction to the principles and main applications of the most common X-ray diffraction techniques will also be provided.

These laboratory activities will enable students to gain an integrated understanding of the different stages of the ceramic manufacturing process, from raw material processing to the production of the final product.

Readings/Bibliography

The teaching materials required to follow the course and complete the planned activities will be made available on the Virtuale platform.

Teaching methods

The course includes frontal theoretical lectures, laboratory sessions at the UE5 laboratories of the Navile Campus, and laboratory activities carried out at the facilities of selected local ceramic companies. The theoretical lectures are designed to provide students with the knowledge required to successfully undertake the experimental laboratory activities and therefore serve as a prerequisite for their effective completion.

Given the nature of the activities and the teaching methods adopted, attendance of this course requires all students to complete Modules 1 and 2 of the safety training programme in e-learning mode and to attend Module 3, which provides specific training on health and safety in study environments. Information on the schedule and attendance procedures for Module 3 is available in the dedicated section of the degree programme website

Assessment methods

This teaching will not lead to a final examination but only to qualifying test.

This test will be considered passed once the student sends good quality reports of all the laboratory experiences performed. The reports must be delivered by March 1st.

Participation to the lectures (theory and practical) is mandatory. The minimum attendance required between laboratories and theory to obtain eligibility will be 75% (attendance will be collected through signatures). If the absences include laboratory experiences it will be necessary to make up for the activity through alternative activities proposed by the teacher.

Teaching tools

The lecture slides will be made available on the Virtuale platform.

Students who are unable to attend the theoretical lectures in person are required to notify the professor and to attend the laboratory activities adequately prepared for the experiments to be performed.

Office hours

See the website of Luca Conti