Course overview
The aim of this course is to develop understanding of the chemistry of soft materials. The theory component of the course covers a variety of different polymer types (including natural and synthetic polymers and copolymers) with consideration of methods of synthesis, (including step-growth and chain-growth polymerisation), characterisation and physical properties. The physical properties of important general classes of soft materials including colloids, surfactants and polymers will also be addressed. The laboratory component of the course provides practical training with a focus on developing skills to prepare, characterise and rationalise the physical and chemical properties of soft materials. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in both theory-focused workshops and practical-based laboratory sessions, in addition to technical laboratory skills. These are essential skills for a professional scientist and are highly valued by employers because they directly contribute to the capability to innovate and troubleshoot in a variety of settings.
- Materials chemistry and soft matter
- Polymers
- Colloids & surfactants
- Practicals
Course learning outcomes
- Apply knowledge of soft materials chemistry to analyse and solve conceptual and quantitative problems
- Accurately represent chemical structures, formulae, equations and reaction mechanisms
- Prepare for individual and/or team-based preparative and measurement-based laboratory investigations using appropriate apparatus, techniques and safe laboratory practices
- Analyse, interpret and present the results of preparative and measurement-based laboratory experiments
- Communicate ideas that relate to soft materials chemistry in written and/or oral form to specialist and/or non-specialist audiences
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Class number 51037
Section FR01
Size 40
Available 40
Class number 51038
Section PR01
Size 10
Available 10
Class number 55179
Section PR02
Size 10
Available 10
Class number 55178
Section PR03
Size 10
Available 10
Class number 55177
Section PR04
Size 10
Available 10
Class number 51039
Section WS01
Size 40
Available 40
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
We’re updating this Fee Calculator. It currently shows fees for programs only. Please check the relevant program for full fee details.
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.