Surfaces, Interfaces and Colloids C

The course comprises two components: a theoretical component and a project. The theoretical component is roughly equivalent to four weeks of full-time study, while the project component is roughly equivalent to one week of full-time study. Instruction in the two components may be integrated and parallel. Theoretical component Instruction is in the form of lectures, seminars, and exercises. The lectures present the course content, and the exercises provide an opportunity for students to apply the presented theories in practice. The seminars offer students concrete opportunities to discuss the course content. The course presents basic theories of surfaces, interfaces, and colloids in terms of their physical chemistry, as well as surface tension activities, surface activity interactions, electrostatics, adsorption, adhesion, colloidal stability, emulsions, microemulsions, foaming, association colloids, solubility, humidification and dissipation, friction and lubrication, and aerosols. Students are expected to study independently to a large extent. Project component Students complete a project related to scientific literature in the field. The project can be either experimental or a literature review. In connection with the project, the course offers an introduction to software and technology used in reporting graphic material and producing so-called poster presentations or folders. The project component may include a study visit at a company, research institute, or similar. Students may be requested to meet the cost of the study visit, in full or in part.