KEMS531 Introduction to Material Chemistry (4 cr)

Open the course unit brochure on Sisu
Study level:
Advanced studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Responsible organisation:
Department of Chemistry
Curriculum periods:
2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024

Description

The course introduces the basic concepts of material chemistry from the perspective of organic chemistry and nanomaterials

  • Basic concepts of material chemistry and classification of materials.
  • The factors affecting the material properties
  • Basics of polymer chemistry: synthesis, classification, structure and properties
  • Polymers in environment, biodegradable and biocompatible polymers
  • Non-covalent polymers and polymer-like compounds
  • Gels
  • Liquid crystals
  • Self-assembling layers and surfaces
  • Hybrid materials, composites and nanomaterials

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student 

  • is able to use material chemistry concepts and terminology.
  • understands the structure-function relationship and the factors affecting the structure and properties of materials.
  • understands the importance of the properties of materials to their applications.
  • knows the most important polymer synthesis methods and reaction mechanisms.
  • is able to classify polymers, composites and hybrid materials according to their structure and properties.
  • is able to analyse and recognise polymer properties and possible applications.
  • understands the principles of gelation, liquid crystals and self-assembly.
  • understands the most important properties of hybrid materials.
  • is able to analyse the environmental and health effects of materials.

Working life skills

  • is able to schedule one's own work, follow the given schedules and deadlines.
  • is able to connect and apply topics of the course to the broader context.
  • is able to acquire knowledge independently and broaden one's knowledge base.
  • is able to answer the given problems and exercises bout orally and literally and justify the answers and/or opinions clearly.
  • is able to discuss the concepts of material chemistry using the correct terminology.
  • understands the ethical and environmental questions related to materials and is able to reflect their significance and solutions to the problems.

Additional information

The course will be lectured 2021-2022 (2nd period). 2020-2021 and 2022-2023 the course can be taken as an online course via learning exercises.

Description of prerequisites

Intermediate studies in chemistry or bachelor level studies in nanoscience. Intermediate studies in organic chemistry strongly recommended.

Compulsory prerequisites

Study materials

  • J.G. Smith, Organic Chemistry 4th-5th edition, chapter 31, 6th edition ch. 28
  • J.W. Steed, J.L. Atwood, Supramolecular Chemistry, 2009, 2nd edition, suitable parts

Completion methods

Method 1

Evaluation criteria:
The course includes oral presentation, learning exercises, self-evaluation and peer-evaluation. To be accepted (grade 1) about 50% of maximum points should be achieved.
Time of teaching:
Period 2
Select all marked parts

Method 2

Evaluation criteria:
The course includes learning exercises and self-evaluation. To be accepted (grade 1) at least 50% of the maximum points should be achieved including at least one accepted exercise from each topic.
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Teaching (4 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Study methods:

Lectures, learning exercises, independent and pair work during the course. Teaching language is English if needed.

No published teaching
x

Independent study (4 cr)

Type:
Independent study
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Study methods:

learning exercises

Teaching