Entry requirements

Structure and function of chemical substances, 10 credits or corresponding

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course the student shall be able to:

• Describe the general structure of polymers.
• define the concept of polymer average molecular weight.
• classify synthetic and biological polymers into subgroups.
• Explain polymer properties in solution.
• Explain polymer properties in the solid state.
• Compare polymers mechanical properties based on their structures.
• identify and explain differences in addition- and step-wise polymerisation reactions.
• Account for reaction mechanisms at radical -, ionic -, and condensation polymerisation.
• Use methods for characterisation of polymeric materials.
• give examples of polymers and their industrial applications.

After carrying out laboratory projects should the student be able to,

• On the basis of a given recipe carry out a polymer synthesis.
• Explain which preparations that are required for carry out a polymer synthesis.
• Choose analytical technique to characterise both the polymerisation reaction and characterise the product.
• Assess risks during chemical synthesis of polymeric materials.
• In writing compile and present the completed laboratory work.

Content

The course gives a general introduction to polymers. Focus lies on classification and systematics of synthetic polymers and biopolymers. Polymer chemistry: polymerisation, kinetics, structures and decomposition. Polymers in solution: thermodynamics, phase equilibria, diffusion, viscosity, polyelectrolytes and gels. Solid polymers: crystalline and amorphous polymers, thermodynamics, phase transformations and mechanical properties. Methods to characterise and analyse solid polymers and polymers in solution <em>Laborationer:</the em> The laboratory sessions consist of polymer synthesis and characterisation.

Instruction

Lectures laboratory sessions and project assignment.

Assessment

Written examination at the end of the course (2 HE credidts). Further, it is required that the student plans, carry out and present an assigned project exercise. The laboratory parts correspond to 1 HE credit and should be passed at completed course. Finally, the project assignment that corresponds should 2 HE credits be passed. The final grade corresponds to a weighted average of the results of the written examination and the compulsory parts.