Materials and Solid State Chemistry - CHEM5330

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Module delivery information

This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.

Overview

The arrangement of atoms and defects in a solid governs its properties. Here, we cover the crystal structures and phase diagrams of solid materials. Bonding in solids is discussed, including metallic, ionic, and molecular crystals, band theory, defects and non-stoichiometry. You will be introduced to the synthesis, properties and applications of a wide range of materials and their solid-state reactions. Applications covered include catalysis, energy materials such as fuel-cells and Li-ion batteries and nanomedicine.

Details

Contact hours

Total Contact Hours: 82
Total Private Study Hours: 68
Total Study Hours: 150

Availability

This is not available as a wild module.

Method of assessment

Assignment 1 (3 hours) – 7.5%
Assignment 2 (3 hours) – 7.5%
Practical Lab Reports (3 hours each) – 25%
Examination (2 hours) – 60%
The assignments are compulsory sub-elements and must be passed to complete the module.

Indicative reading

Smart, L. E. and Moore, E. A. (2020). Solid State Chemistry: An Introduction, Fifth Edition Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press
West, A. (2014). Solid State Chemistry and its Applications, Second Edition. London: Wiley

See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)

Learning outcomes

The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate an ability to describe, with confidence, the features of the most common crystalline structures.
Demonstrate the ability to identify different bonding contributions in the solid state.
Demonstrate the ability to relate the crystalline structure with the bonding to predict materials properties.
Demonstrate assured ability to describe different defect structures in the solid state and how they affect the materials properties.
Demonstrate an assured ability to interpret and draw phase diagrams.

The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate the ability to formulate problems in precise terms and to identify key issues, and the confidence to try different approaches in order to make progress on challenging problems.
Demonstrate thorough analytical skills associated with the need to pay attention to detail and to develop an ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas, to construct logical arguments and to use technical language correctly.
Demonstrate the ability to work independently, to use initiative, to organise oneself to meet deadlines and to interact constructively with other people.

Notes

  1. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  2. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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