66956 - Physico-Chemical Methods in Materials Science

Learning outcomes

The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with physical-chemistry measurement techniques and instrumentations applied to the characterization of conventional and innovative materials. The approach is from both theoretical and experimental points of view. The acquired knowledge of these subjects will allow the assessment of the possible choices of materials that are suitable for the applications or functionalities for which a product has to be designed.

Course contents

Pre-requisites

- Elementary functions: powers, roots, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions. Solution of second degree algebraic equations. Basic knowledge of differential and integral calculus for functions of a real variable. (Teaching activity: Mathematics with exercises)

- Knowledge of the main physical parameters and of the relations that link them; main units of measurement. (Teaching activity: Physics with exercises)

- Concept of solution and mole fraction. Calculations related to solution dilution. (Teaching activity: General and Inorganic Chemistry with Laboratory)

- Knowledge of the main parameters and equations of equilibrium Termodynamics. Basic elements of Quantum chemistry (energy levels, orbitals) and of Absorption spectroscopy. (Teaching activity: Physical Chemistry)

- Basic elements of Rheology. Basic elements of Tensiometry. Liquid crystalline materials and their applications. (Teaching activity: Materials Chemistry and Physical Chemistry Laboratory)

Program

- Principles of material's characterization
- Principles and methods of optical spectroscopy
- References to the quantum-mechanical treatment of matter/electromagnetic-waves interaction
- Molecular vibrations
- Electronic states, phosphorescence, fluorescence
- Photoacoustic spectroscopy
- Raman spectroscopy
- Principles of scanning electron Microscopy

Readings/Bibliography

Lesson notes.
Book chapters and scientific papers indicated by the teacher on purpose.
Skoog, Leary, Chimica Analitica Strumentale, EdiSES, Napoli.
P.W. Atkins and J. de Paula, Chimica Fisica (Fifth Italian edition), Zanichelli, 2012.

Teaching methods

Classroom lessons.
Experimental practice in laboratory.

Assessment methods

The final examination is oral. It will be focused on a probable set of questions concerning the theoretical and practical knowledge of the student about principles and technologies presented along the classes. Moreover there will bethe evaluation of a report presented by the student on a topic, among those faced experimentally.

Teaching tools

Slide projector.
Personal Computers.
Blackboard.

Office hours

See the website of Alberto Arcioni