Surface properties M1

This course provides comprehensive knowledge and tools related to surface properties and interfacial behavior of crystalline and amorphous solids in different media. It consists of two parts: (1) Fundamentals of Colloid and Surface Science, divided and porous solids

(2) Surface characterization techniques and surface analysis

Hourly volumes:

CM: 5 p.m .

Tutorial: 8 hours

The common objective of this teaching unit is to provide students with sufficient knowledge and skills to be able to:

1) understand and correctly use the concept of interface,

2) understand the main mechanisms governing the behavior of powdered solids dispersed in gaseous and liquid media,

3) choose an appropriate characterization method or analysis to characterize surface properties of a given solid material,

4) Promote active engagement of students in their class activities through tutorials, flipped classes, and critical analysis of research papers.

Basic knowledge of fundamental concepts in Chemistry, Physics, and Solid State Science (Bachelor's degree program)

Students are evaluated by means of continuous assessment (oral presentations, active participation in tutorials and flipped classes, homework assignments) in conjunction with examinations at the end of the teaching period. More specifically:

Part 1 and 2: 25% of continuous assessment + 75% of final exam

Part 2: 50% of continuous assessment + 50% of homework assignment at the end of the teaching period.

Part 1: Lectures: 8.5 hours, Tutorials: 5 hours

An introductory part, taught in the form of lectures with open discussions intermittently, is proposed first to understand the main principles governing the behavior of solids in heterogeneous systems. The concept of surface energy of colloidal-sized particles, together with the various molecular and macroscopic interactions involved (i.e., interparticle van der Waals forces, ionic double layer interactions, DLVO theory), form the basis for explaining the stability of solid dispersions in gaseous and liquid media, as well as interfacial phenomena (gas adsorption, immersion, wetting, adsorption from solution) in systems containing divided and porous solids. Particulate diffusion and electrophoresis, scattering of light by solid particles are also presented here. Knowledge of interfacial mechanisms is then placed on a more systematic basis to describe the use of probing molecules and ions to determine the surface properties of divided and porous materials. Specific surface area and porosity, surface acidity and basicity, surface hydrophobic and hydrophilic character are the main characteristics to be considered, mainly through analysis of real examples of materials studied experimentally or critical analysis of research papers. This teaching sub-unit takes the form of integrated courses and tutorials.

Part 2: Lectures: 8.5, Tutorials: 3 hours

This second part is more about Surface-specific techniques and Surface analysis:

• Definition of interfaces, scales, and resolutions.
• Morphological observation surface (scanning electron microscopy SEM, transmission electron microscopy TEM, electron backscatter diffraction EBSD, near-field microscopies AFM, STM, SNOM)
• Chemical analysis (AES spectroscopy, XPS, SIMS, HREELS)
• Structural and functional analysis in situ (Surface tension, ATR, SERS, quartz microbalance QCM, ellipsometry, large instruments GiSAXS, SEXAFS)

The competencies required for this part 2 are detailed knowledge of surface analysis techniques: 1) to be able to describe and schematize the device, 2) to outline the benefits and challenges of the technology based on the sample type, 3) to understand the resolution and sensitivity of each technique, 4) to be able to understand a publication that implements a technical study and explain these results.

The work in a flipped classroom is interesting because it allows students to gain an understanding of unfamiliar knowledge, share it with the group, and engage in constructive discussion through questions and answers with the group.

Administrative contact(s):

Master's Program in Chemistry Secretariat

https://master-chimie.edu.umontpellier.fr/