Introductory description

N/A

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module will provide students with a solid understanding of several fundamental and contemporary aspects of colloid science.

The module is divided into 3 key learning blocks. Note that BLOCKS 1 and 2 are taught as part of CH975 and that content has also been covered by CH3F6 in its blocks 4 and 5:

BLOCK 3: PARTICLES AT SOFT INTERFACES
We will introduce scientific principles of capillarity. In this context we will focus and explore the phenomenon of Pickering stabilization, in that solid particles have the ability to adhere to a soft (i.e. liquid-liquid or liquid-gas) interface. Key-words: Pickering emulsions, Ore flotation, capillary forces, wetting/de-wetting, interfacial and line tension, contact angle.

BLOCK 4: COLLOID STABILITY
After recapping ways to stabilize colloids via electrostatic, steric, or depletion methods, we will look in detail into the DLVO theory. Key words: charged interfaces, van der Waals interactions, Hamaker coefficient, Derjaguin approximation, Coulomb repulsion, double layer, critical coagulation concentration.

BLOCK 5: RHEOLOGY
We will (re-) introduce rheological concepts and apply these to colloidal dispersions. Key words: kinematics and dynamics, shear rate, stress, viscosity. Yield stress, visco-elasticity, shear thinning and thickening. Hydrodynamic effects. Brownian contributions. Flocculation and thixotropy (Reversible time effects).

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• KNOWLEDGE: The module will provide students with a solid understanding of several fundamental and contemporary aspects of colloid science focussing on three key learning blocks (particles at soft interfaces, colloid stability, and rheology: see point 20 for more detail). Students will develop specialized knowledge in the area of colloid science and integrate this across the wider areas of chemistry, chemical engineering, physics and manufacturing.
• APPLIED LEARNING: This module has a designed set of workshops associated with each block of learning in which concepts will be applied and integrated in an interactive discussion format.
• DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES: Through interactive workshops and a group project students will be able to evaluate diverse points of view embedded within varying frameworks which may include, technological/scientific context, societal and environmental impact, temporal and trending contexts.
• COMPETENCY SKILLS: Students will engage in critical inquiry and develop their skill set to process, understand, and communicate/explain and evaluate scientific principles and their impact.
• COMMUNICATION: Student will be able to communicate effectively in presenting ideas orally (especially in the workshop sessions), and in the format of an assessed group presentation
• ETHICAL REASONING: Students will be able to reason ethically in evaluating the design and use of colloidal materials in nowadays society and illustrate their learning in the form of a group project/presentation.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

International

e.g. includes mobility opportunities, explores concepts and ideas in a global context, fosters a global mindset and awareness of diversity, etc.

Subject specific skills

Numeracy
Problem solving
Critical thinking
Teamwork

Transferable skills

Numeracy
Problem solving
Critical thinking
Teamwork