Physical Chemistry of Macromolecules C

The course consists of three components: theory, laboratory, and project. The theory component has a duration of about seven weeks of full-time study, while the laboratory and project components together correspond to about three weeks of full-time study. The components run parallel and are partly integrated. Theory Instruction is in the form of lectures and exercises. Course content is presented in the lectures and in the exercises students are supported in the practical application of the presented theories. The course deals with the basic theories of the physical chemistry of macromolecules, diluted and concentrated solutions, interactions, phase transitions, solubility and ion strength effects, basic and applied thermodynamics, a survey of current research areas in the physical chemistry of macromolecules, and experimental methods. The course requires a high degree of individual study. Laboratory The laboratory component includes laboratory sessions and is integrated with the theory component. Active participation in laboratory sessions is mandatory. For permission to carry out a certain laboratory task, students have to prepare through reading and processing the instructions for the task and relevant parts of the course literature. Oral presentations may be included. All reports and protocols must be handed in and accepted within three weeks after the end of the course for the results to be registered within the semester. Reports and protocols submitted late will be assessed when time is available, but no later than the next semester. Project Students carry out a laboratory task derived from the scientific literature, complete a literature study, and are introduced to a software and technique for presenting a poster. The project is an individual assignment. Field trips to companies, research institutes etc can be included and may entail extra costs for students.