PCC-20806 Colloid Science

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

(Introductory) Thermodynamics: FPH-10803 or PCC-21802 or PCC-21803 or PCC-20306

Continuation courses:

Advanced Soft Matter PCC-31806

Contents:

This is an introductory course on colloid science. The following topics are treated: thermal motion and molecular forces, surface forces, particles, polymers, self-assembly, phase behaviour, dispersion, stability and rheology.

Learning outcomes:

- define the concepts of colloid science as presented in the course text and lectures, and understand the quantitative expression of these concepts in terms of formulas (main concepts: colloidal interaction forces, colloidal stability, self-assembly, viscosity and visco-elasticity of colloidal systems);
- recognize concepts of colloid science in concrete practical cases, and discuss their application, both qualitatively and quantitatively, to such cases;
- handle the formulas in the course text in mathematically correct ways, and use them to calculate physical quantities, with due attention to units and dimensions;
- solve theoretical problems dealing with the various applications of colloids science, with use of a formula compendium;
- carry out experiments on colloidal phenomena in model systems following a given protocol, write a short laboratory report on such experiments, with a critical discussion of experimental findings, and a quantitative analysis using the concepts and formulas presented in the course text and lectures.

Activities:

Lectures, laboratory work, tutorials and self-study.

Examination:

The examination is based on a written exam and the quality of the practical work. The final mark is a weighted average of the written exam (weighing factor 2) and the practical work (weighing factor 1).

Literature:

Reader 'Introduction to Soft Mather Sciece'.