Synthesis and Chemical Characterization

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

Lectures – Theoretical concepts will be explained using audiovisual support materials (mainly powerpoint). Whenever feasible, demonstrations will be performed in the classroom.

Practical classes – Examples of industrial processes and research projects

Doubt sessions/extra classes – Whenever required by the students additional sessions or extra classes can be scheduled to clarify doubts.

Learning Outcomes

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to polymeric materials, addressing the most important topics related to synthesis, characterization and application. Special attention will be paid to connect theoretical topics to a number of on-going research projects. The main objectives of the module are: acquisition and development of knowledge/basic and specific skills relating to polymer synthesis using conventional and advanced polymerization techniques; acquisition and development of knowledge/basic and specific skills relating to structural polymer characterization; acquisition and development of knowledge/basic and specific skills to establish logic relationships between different polymer structures and their properties; Acquisition and development of knowledge/basic skills relating to different case studies on the development of new polymers for specific industrial applications.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Introduction, definitions and classification of polymers. Polymer synthesis. Mechanism of polymerization. Advanced polymer synthesis (living radical polymerization and click chemistry). Synthesis of complex structures. Polymerization processes. Copolymerization; Polymer modification methods. Biopolymers; Smart Polymers (examples, aplications in nanotechnology). Structural characterization of polymers (RMN, FTIR and Maldi-TOF). Determination of molecular weight and its distribution. Synthesis of nanostructured materials by sol-gel technology. Sol-gel chemistry with silicon alkoxides and metal salts. Physical and chemical mechanisms. Determinant factors. Properties and applications of aerogels. Preparation of hybrid silica-based aerogels. Pratical classes (demonstration of industrial processes - “scale-down” and structural, thermal and mechanical characterization of polymers). Seminar(s) given by renowned person(s) in the area.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 50.0%
An assignment: 50.0%

Bibliography

Stevens, M.P. Polymer Chemistry - An Introduction. 3rd ed, Oxford University Press, 1999.

Fried, J.R. Polymer Science and Technology, 2nd ed. Prentice Hall PTR, 2007.

Cowie, J.M.G.; Arrighi, A. Polymers: Chemistry and Physics of Modern Materials, 3rd edition, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2008.