CHM2182

MATERIALS CHEM: BIOMATERIALS, MACROMOLECULES AND SMART MATERIALS ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Undergraduate

(SCI)

Leader: Professor Keith Murray

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: The unit describes the structure, properties and synthesis of biomaterials, macromolecules, and 'Smart' inorganic materials which are designed to carry out a range of sensing or active functions. Includes: materials produced by plants and animals such as collagen, bone, cellulose and membranes; properties of everyday materials such as polypropylene and polyurethane and the link between properties, structure and synthesis. It also examines the structure if ceramics and glasses. Some of the lecture material will also be available via computer based modules and quizzes, allowing students to progress at an individula pace through some segments of the course.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will be able to: describe the characteristics of the different classes of macromolecules, discuss the synthesis of a variety of synthetic and natural polymers and relate their structure and properties to aspects of the synthesis method used, describe the structure and properties of a number of biomaterials and discuss possible synthetic routes to these materials or their synthetic relatives, describe the structure of various inorganic network materials and the uses to which they can be put, carry out laboratory preparations of polymers, biomaterials and inorganic network materials. Students will also become experienced in the use of a range of synthetic laboratory procedures and chemical and structural "detective" techniques and will have further developed skills in working in small groups, risk assessment, data analysis and in the written and oral presentation of scientific data.

Assessment: Examination (3 hours): 60% + Assignments: 10% + Laboratory reports: 30%

Contact Hours: Three 1-hour lectures/tutorials and the equivalent of 3-hours laboratory activity per week

Prerequisites: 6 points level one chemistry or BMS1011

Prohibitions: CHM2931, CHM2932, CHM3182