Chemistry: Advanced Surface and Colloid Chemistry

<p>Interested in understanding physico-chemical processes in the field of of surface and colloid chemistry, for example in biological systems or in drug formulation? Immerse yourself in the properties of different surfaces at the molecular level. Learn about the mechanisms and forces that arise during reactions on different surfaces, linked to biological systems and technical applications.</p><p>KEMM87. The aim of the course is to provide advanced physical-chemical knowledge within the field of Surface and Colloid Chemistry, based on a molecular perspective, as well as a quantitative understanding of a selection of fundamental colloid and interfacial phenomena. Basic principles of intermolecular interactions and thermodynamics are linked to applications in biological systems and technical applications, including cell membranes, drug formulations, food applications. Different experimental physico-chemical techniques are also introduced in the lectures as well as the laboratory exercises.</p> <h3>Course content</h3> <p>The theoretical part treats surface and colloid chemistry based on a molecular physicochemical perspective. Central themes are the self-association of amphiphilic molecules, polymers in colloidal systems, phase equilibria in solutions, interfacial phenomena, electrostatic interactions in colloidal systems and forces between macro and mesoscopic surfaces separated by a liquid phase.</p> <p>The practical part contains laboratory work, computer simulations and a literature exercise. Laboratory work deals with key experimental techniques within the field of surface and colloid chemistry and illustrate central  phenomena from the theory part. Computer simulations treat polymers and electrostatic phenomena in colloidal systems. The literature exercise includes literature search in a database, oral presentation of a scientific article and participation in discussion at the oral presentations.</p>