Module Catalogues

Surface Chemistry and Functional Materials

Module Title Surface Chemistry and Functional Materials
Module Level Level 3
Module Credits 5.00
Academic Year 2026/27
Semester SEM1

Aims and Fit of Module

This course introduces the subject of surfaces, including surface thermodynamics and kinetics, surface phenomena in the overall behavior of a material. It also enables students to gain an understanding of the principles underlying the properties of functional of materials.

Learning outcomes

A: Analyze the structure, processes, dynamics, and functionality of surfaces, and how these determine chemical and physical properties. B: Master basic concepts of fundamental surface thermodynamics and kinetics. C: Evaluate surface phenomena and understand the physics and chemistry behind surface phenomena. D: Appraise the fundamental of functional materials including classification, types of materials. E: Qualitatively analyze the electric, optical and magnetic properties of materials. F: Understand the relationship between specific material properties and their function in applications using electric, optical and/or magnetic materials.

Method of teaching and learning

This module will be delivered by a combination of lectures and tutorials. Lectures will be designed to provide essential information and introduce students to the basic tools of analysis, including some basic practice in applying the techniques. Tutorials will be based around exercise sheets, the completion of which and their discussion in workshops will provide students with a learning opportunity designed to extend the material introduced in the lectures. The assessment consists of 2 coursework and final exam that assess different learning outcomes.