Chemistry of Functional Materials (F1101)

15 credits, Level 6

Spring teaching

This module introduces you to the chemistry and physics of extended inorganic solids. You’ll explore state-of-the-art synthetic and characterisation methods, as well as applications of these materials.

You’ll look at synthetic methods in solid-state chemistry, in addition to advanced physical techniques, including:

• X-ray diffraction
• Electron microscopy (SEM, TEM)
• BET surface area analysis
• solid-state NMR
• EPR spectroscopy for structure determination.

Through a research-lef overview, you’ll gain an awareness and appreciation of functional materials such as:

• batteries
• solar cells
• zeolites
• silicates
• Prussian blues
• metal-organic framework.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 154 hours of work. This breaks down into about 26 hours of contact time and about 128 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.