How do we isolate, identify, and analyse complex mixtures in science and industry? Why are separation techniques critical to modern analytical chemistry? This module introduces you to the core principles and practical applications of separation science. You will explore key chromatographic techniques, including HPLC, GC, TLC, ion-exchange, size-exclusion, and affinity chromatography, developing an understanding of how different methods are selected and optimised. You'll also investigate techniques such as solvent extraction, solid phase extraction (SPE), membrane separation, and centrifugation, learning how these approaches are applied across environmental, pharmaceutical, and biomedical industries. Throughout the module, you'll build knowledge of critical concepts like retention, resolution, selectivity, and data analysis, gaining the skills to apply separation science in real-world analytical contexts
Distant and Online blended learning: lectures, audio, recordings, video clips, study guides - 44 hours
'Live' contact hours: live teaching via webinars and induction - 10 hours
Extended Writing worth 50% (2,000 words)
2 hour Exam worth 50%
All assessments must be passed to pass the module.
Reassessment: Like-for-like
Identify and explain the key principles of chromatographic techniques, including partition, adsorption, and size-exclusion methods.
Recognise the key components and operational parameters of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) systems.
Classify a range of separation techniques, including chromatography, solvent extraction, membrane separation, and centrifugation, according to their principles and applications.
Apply appropriate separation methods to solve analytical problems in analytical chemistry, environmental, pharmaceutical, and biomedical contexts.
Analyse separation data to assess method performance, including retention, resolution, selectivity, and the identification of potential errors.
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