B1725 - ANALISI CHIMICA E IMPATTO AMBIENTALE

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student is able to understand the principles defining analytical chemistry as 'problem-solving.' They can identify the most appropriate methodologies for solving simple analytical problems, present and evaluate experimental data using statistical procedures. They are also capable of understanding standard operating procedures, drafting an analysis certificate, and have acquired the main notions of environmental chemistry functional to understanding the sustainability of processes and materials.

Course contents

The course introduces the fundamentals of quantitative analytical chemistry and the concept of chemical analysis as a problem-solving process, covering the main classical and instrumental analytical methods. It also addresses chemical sensing technologies, with particular emphasis on gas sensors based on semiconductor and metal oxide materials, focusing on their sensing mechanisms, signal transduction principles, and applications in environmental monitoring. Biosensors for environmental monitoring are presented, including their operating principles and transduction mechanisms. The course further covers advanced materials for energy applications, with particular attention to Wide Band Gap (WBG) semiconductors (SiC, GaN, and emerging materials), their properties, characterization methodologies, and applications in power electronic devices, energy conversion systems, and sustainable mobility. Finally, the course provides an introduction to the sustainability of materials and manufacturing processes, highlighting the role of analytical chemistry in the energy transition and the circular economy.

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes, scientific articles, and additional teaching materials will be made available by the instructor through the University’s e-learning platform.

For further reading, the following references are recommended:

• D. C. Harris, Quantitative Chemical Analysis, W. H. Freeman (or the Italian edition: Chimica Analitica Quantitativa, Zanichelli).
• S. Arnaldo, Environmental Chemistry and Sustainability (Chimica Ambientale e Sostenibilità), UTET.
• Y. Deng (2023). Semiconducting Metal Oxides for Gas Sensing (2nd ed.). Springer Nature Singapore.
• P. Rasooly, M. A. Trudil, Biosensors and Modern Biospecific Analytical Techniques. Humana Press (Springer).
• D. Akinwande, J. Zhang, U. K. Mishra (Eds.). Wide Bandgap Semiconductors for Power Electronics: Materials, Devices, Applications. Wiley, 2024.

Teaching methods

The course consists of lectures supported by multimedia presentations and the use of a traditional or electronic whiteboard for demonstrations, worked examples, and problem-solving exercises. Teaching activities include the discussion of case studies related to environmental monitoring, chemical and gas sensors, and advanced materials for energy applications. Seminars delivered by experts from academia and industry may also be organized. Practical exercises are included, and students are required to prepare a written report, which will be discussed during the final oral examination.

Assessment methods

Learning assessment is carried out through an oral examination. With regard to assessment, a limited, declared, and non-substantial use of AI is permitted for support activities (e.g., summarization and rephrasing). The substantial use of AI to complete any part of the assessment is not permitted.

Teaching tools

Traditional or electronic whiteboard and multimedia projector.

Office hours

See the website of Sabrina Conoci