Course overview
This course focuses on the synthesis and characterisation of advanced materials and their applications. It covers self-assembling materials and supramolecular chemistry, with an emphasis on the synthesis, structures and properties of metal-based supramolecular assemblies. The chemistry and applications of porous extended materials such as zeolites, metal-organic frameworks and porous carbons will also be presented and these will be used as an introduction to the principles of gas adsorption, storage and separation, as well as techniques of experimental characterisation of porous materials. Sub-nanoscale assemblies will also be discussed, including topics covering aspects of self-assembly of atoms, C60, fullerenes, nanotubes, rare gas clusters, nanodroplets, metal clusters and surface techniques. Examples of recent uses of these advanced materials in sensing, separations, catalysis, health, and electronics will be presented.
Course learning outcomes
- Apply knowledge of supramolecular chemistry, porous extended materials and sub-nanoscale assemblies to analyse and solve quantitative and conceptual problems and to evaluate proposed solutions
- Demonstrate proficiency in accurately representing chemical structures, formulae, and equations
- Analyse, interpret and present the results of preparative and measurement-based laboratory experiments conducted using appropriate apparatus, techniques and safe laboratory practices
- Communicate results of laboratory experiments in written scientific reports and/or oral presentations