Material chemistry, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This course in materials chemistry provides an understanding of how molecular properties govern the behavior of materials-from bonding and structural principles through defects, porosity, and surface chemistry to macroscopic material functions. Students gain insight into the differences between crystalline and amorphous materials and how these affect mechanical, optical, thermal, and electrical properties. The course also highlights how material selection can be tailored to optimize performance in advanced applications such as membranes, batteries, solar cells, and advanced nanomaterials, with a focus on future sustainable solutions.
 
The course is divided into two modules:

Module 1: Theory (6 credits) Covers fundamental concepts, properties, and applications of solid phases and nanomaterials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.

Module 2: Laboratory Work (1.5 credits) Focuses on the characterization of the structure and properties of various solid phases.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

1. Explain fundamental principles of the structure and symmetry of solid materials.
2. Describe key experimental methods for investigating material structure and properties.
3. Outline processes and methods for the synthesis of solid materials.
4. Understand how defects and compositional deviations affect material properties.
5. Provide an overview of porous materials and their technical applications.

Skills and abilities
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

1. Use experimental techniques to characterize solid materials.
2. Analyze and interpret structural data for simple crystalline materials.
3. Apply quantitative methods to solve problems related to material structure and synthesis.
4. Present results and reasoning in materials chemistry clearly and systematically, both in writing and orally.

Evaluative Ability and Approach
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

1. Critically assess scientific studies and reasoning in the field of materials.
2. Make well-founded choices of materials and methods for specific technical problems.
3. Reflect on sustainability, environmental, and ethical issues related to the development and use of materials.
4. Demonstrate an analytical and reflective approach in laboratory work, including evaluating methodological limitations and the reliability of results.
5. Integrate knowledge from previous courses to solve complex problems in materials chemistry.

Required Knowledge

At least 60 credits Chemistry, including Technical chemistry 1 15 credits, Organic chemistry for engineers 15 credits and Chemical and molecular thermodynamics for engineers 7.5 credits or the equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/B. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course is offered as a distance course and includes:

• Digital lectures: Introduction to theoretical concepts and principles.
• Digital exercises: Problem-solving sessions focused on applying concepts to real-world scenarios.
• Self-study: Based on assigned course literature.
• Laboratory work: Includes both physical experiments and virtual simulations to demonstrate key concepts in materials chemistry. Laboratory work is conducted in groups and summarized in written reports and oral seminars.

Examination modes

Assessment is based on a written exam (Module 1) and written reports or oral presentations of laboratory work (Module 2).
Module 1: Written exam. Grades for engineering students: Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with merit (4), Pass with distinction (5).
Module 2: Laboratory work assessed through lab reports. Graded as Pass (G) or Fail (U).

To pass the course, students must pass and complete both modules. The final grade is based on the result of the written exam in Module 1.

The examiner may decide on deviations from the examination format in the syllabus. Individual adaptations of the examination format should be considered based on the student's needs, within the framework of the expected learning outcomes. Students requiring adapted examination must apply to the responsible department no later than 10 working days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaptation and informs the student.

Other regulations

Examination based on this syllabus is guaranteed for two years after the student's first registration on the course.

In the event that the syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination opportunity) according to the regulations in the syllabus that the student was originally registered on for a period of a maximum of two years from the time that the previous syllabus ceased to apply or that the course ended.