C9255 - MATERIALS INTERFACES

Learning outcomes

The class provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of interfaces linking fundamental principles with applications and laboratories. The class focuses on the essential concepts rather than specific details, on intuitive understanding rather than learning facts. Students will acquire the ability to: i) apply fundamental thermodynamic and kinetic principles to describe and analyze interfaces in liquids, solids, and soft matter systems; ii) interpret and model key interfacial behaviors, such as wetting, adsorption, surface tension, and friction, using simplified but robust physical frameworks; iii) evaluate the role of interfaces in real-world technologies, including batteries, microelectronic devices, sustainable materials, and biotechnological systems; iv) solve practical problems involving interfaces through structured reasoning and analytical methods practiced in exercise sessions; v) critically assess experimental data related to surface and interfacial phenomena and understand the principles behind relevant laboratory techniques

Course contents

1.) Why interfaces matter – Scaling Laws - Nanosciences

2.) Forces and Thermodynamics of Interfaces: Van-der-Waals forces, capilary and

hydrodynamic forces, surface tension, Kelvin equation

3.) Electrostatic and electrodynamic phenomena at interfaces: Poisson equation, charge distributions, double layer theory, field effect, metal-semioconductor junction

4.) Surfaces and microstructure: atomic structure, surface reconstruction, grain boundaries and defects, nucleation and growth

5.) Friction, Solvation, Fracture – Interfaces and their relevance in technology

Important themes that are distributed between chapters:
(i) Experimental techniques to characterize interfaces
(ii) Energy level diagrams and electrochemical potential
(iii) Surface engineering and surface treatments

Readings/Bibliography

Physics and Chemistry of Interfaces, Author(s): Hans-Jürgen Butt Wiley, DOI:10.1002/3527602313

Surface Science of Intercalation Materials and Solid Electrolytes: A View on Electron and Ion Transfer at Li-ion Electrodes Based on Energy Level Concepts, Author: Rene Hausbrandt, Springer Briefs in Physics

Teaching methods

The course combines traditional lectures with an interactive, student-centered teaching approach. Core concepts are introduced through classroom lectures supported by presentation slides and a traditional or electronic board, allowing for both structured explanations and the step-by-step development of derivations, concepts, and problem-solving strategies.

Each topic is accompanied by carefully selected exercises that encourage students to apply the theoretical concepts independently. These exercises are assigned as homework and subsequently discussed in class, where different solution approaches are analyzed and common misconceptions are addressed. Interactive discussions and questions are encouraged throughout the lectures to promote critical thinking and deepen conceptual understanding. Whenever appropriate, real-world examples and applications are integrated to illustrate the relevance of the course material and to foster connections between theory and practice.

Assessment methods

Assessment of learning will take place through a written exam and an oral exam, during which the exercise solutions will also be discussed. The written exam will consist of exercises similar to those completed in class.

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities: it is recommended to contact the University office in charge (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it ) in advance. The office will be responsible for proposing any accommodations to the interested students, which must in any case be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days in advance. The instructor will evaluate their suitability in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Teaching tools

Blackboard (traditional or electronic), video projector, computer, some demonstration experiments

Office hours

See the website of Tobias Cramer