98854 - LABORATORIO DI CHIMICA ANALITICA E STRUMENTALE

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the students are expected to acquire knowledge and practical skills on the use of the main sampling techniques and methods of handling solid, liquid and gaseous samples. Students will be able to carry out the common instrumental analyzes: volumetric analysis, potentiometry, spectroscopy, separative techniques, mass spectrometry. Students will be able to perform instrumentation calibration and quality control of analytical data and will be able to write and manage spreadsheets suitable for processing experimental data. They will be able to present and evaluate experimental data by applying basic statistical procedures for univariate and multivariate analysis. In addition, they will be able to understand a standard operating procedure (SOP) and to draw up a certificate of analysis.

Course contents

The laboratory activities, carried out in small work groups or if possible individually, involve the practical use of the main laboratory techniques for sample preparation and instrumental analysis.

Module 1 (18h)

The quantitative analyses carried out by acid-base and complexometric titrations will be examined, and, subsequently, the potentiometric methods of analysis (ion-selective electrodes and reference electrodes, potentiometric methods based on the use of ion-selective electrodes, potentiometric titrations). The  methods will then be compared by analysing a real sample.

Module 2 (12 h)

The sampling and sample treatment techniques will be examined and applied, with particular reference to the sampling of soils, their granulometric characterization and the extraction and quantification of the metal content. The quality of the analytical data produced will be evaluated from a statistical point of view, considering in particular the effect of sampling on the uncertainty of the results.

Module 3 (15h)

Spectrophotometric analysis techniques in various formats (eg cuvette, microplate) will be used to develop analytical methods in their various phases, from calibration to evaluation and validation of the analytical data.

Module 4 (15 h)

The techniques of spectrofluorimetric analysis and absorption and / or emission atomic spectroscopy will be used to develop analytical methods in their various phases, from calibration to evaluation and verification of the analytical data.

Module 5 (24h)

Chromatographic analytical methods (gas chromatography, GC, and liquid chromatography, HPLC) will be developed in the various phases, from calibration and sample preparation to validation (eg determination of accuracy and precision).

In the different laboratory modules the entire analytical process will be examined, up to the preparation of the analysis report and the laboratory report in which particular attention will be required to the significance of the data obtained and to statistical validation.

Where possible, the same analytical parameter will be obtained with different analytical techniques in order to compare the methods and highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

Issues relating to the quality control of analytical data and the use and management of instrumentation will also be addressed according to the principles of quality management (setting and use of instrumental software, calibration and / or calibration, verification of instrumental parameters, maintenance and maintenance ordinary instrumentation).

Readings/Bibliography

J.F. Holler, S.R. Crouch. Fondamenti di chimica analitica di Skoog e West, 3° Ed. (EdiSES, 2015)

D.C. Harris. Chimica analitica quantitativa, 3° Ed. (Zanichelli, 2017)

M. Grotti, F. Ardini. Il laboratorio di chimica analitica - Concetti di base ed esercizi svolti, 1° Ed. (EdiSES, 2022)

G. Filatrella, P. Romano. Elaborazione statistica dei dati sperimentali con elementi di laboratorio, 2° Ed. (EdiSES, 2022)

Teaching methods

The teaching activity will include practical laboratory experiments and exercises related to solving analytical problems related to laboratory activities, setting up experiments and analyzing the obtained results.

An experimental and practical design activity will also be carried out, organized for small work groups and led by teachers, based on the resolution of simple case studies that will address the topics of the course also through the development of simple analytical methods.

Due to the type of activity, the attendance of the laboratory requires the performance by the student of the specific training on safety and health in study places (modules 1 – 3). Modules 1 and 2 are in e-learning mode, while information on dates and methods of attendance of module 3 can be found in the specific section of the degree program website.

Assessment methods

Successful completion of the course requires the issuance of a qualification, which will take place upon presentation of the reports on the activities carried out. The quality of the work and the ability to use the concepts and tools learned during the course and to report the work carried out and the data collected in a correct and synthetic way will be particularly evaluated. To obtain eligibility, the student must participate in more than 85% of the activities.

Teaching tools

All the material will be made available in electronic format on the appropriate online platforms (eg "Virtuale"). It is recommended to print and bring the experiences booklet relative to practical laboratory experiments.

Office hours

See the website of Martina Zangheri

See the website of Federica Mariani

See the website of Andrea Zattoni

See the website of Massimo Guardigli

See the website of Jessica Fiori