KEMS448 Advanced Laboratory Practicals in Physical Chemistry (1–12 cr)

The computational assignments provide a comprehensive overview of the software base used in the research at the Chemistry Department. In addition to training general molecular modelling methods, larger computational projects are available. The range of topics covers surface chemistry, biochemical processes, and modern material science.

Spectroscopic measurements are carried out in the student laboratory as well as in the laser laboratory with both continuous and pulsed light sources. The topics are related to basic analytical and structural spectroscopy measurements, applied photochemistry work, and femtosecond spectroscopy. The practicals are aimed at introducing both qualitative and quantitative spectroscopic analyses and determination of structural parameters of small organic compounds in gas and solution phases.

The electrochemical practical covers the evaluation of electrode materials for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), a key reaction in water electrolysis for green hydrogen production. It focuses on determining key performance metrics like electrocatalytic activity, reaction kinetics (exchange current density, Tafel slope), and the influence of different electrode materials and experimental conditions on kinetics and thermodynamics.

The lab practicals are carried out independently or in small groups in the physical chemistry student lab and the laboratories of the Nanoscience center. Individual lab practicals correspond to 1–2 ECTS. 

After completing the course, the student has become familiar with computational work in chemistry and is familiar with the methods used in it. The student is able to evaluate and describe the applicability and properties of different modeling methods in chemical problems. The student knows the theoretical and experimental basis of spectroscopic measurement methods, understands the phenomena and the underlying theories and is able to interpret the experimental spectra. The student will learn best practices for assessing the performance of electrode materials for electrochemical energy conversion reactions and will develop skills to set up and operate electrochemical cells. Student is able to produce scientific reports on his/her measurement or calculation results, compare the results with published research and explain the impact of various sources of error and variables on the results.

Workplace skills:

The course provides spectroscopic and electrochemical instrumentation skills and analytical skills. Computational methods used in the course are valid methods used in research and development work. In addition, student will gain know-how in programming and scientific computing infrastructures in Finland.

Bachelor level studies in chemistry, especially physical chemistry courses KEMA2240, KEMA2250, KEMA2350 and KEMA2340. In addition, the following courses are strongly recommended: 

KEMS412 Symmetry and group theory in chemistry for labs:

• FTIR spectrum of carbon dioxide and Raman spectra of liquid CCl₄

KEMS4150 Optical spectroscopy for labs:

• Fluorescence lifetime of Eosin Y, Fluorescence of pyrene excimer and Laser spectroscopy in fs time scale.

KEMS454 Surface chemistry and catalysis for lab:

• Electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction.