Module Code - Title:
CH4027
-
NANOTECHNOLOGY
Year Last Offered:
2026/7
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
BY4001
CH4252
CH4701
PH4102
PH4131
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To provide a specialist module in nanotechnology.
The Nanotechnology module will
• Provide the student with a broad understanding of the physical and chemical principles that underpin nanoscience and nanotechnology.
• Acquaint the student with synthetic methods for formation of nanostructures and new physical properties that arise.
• Enable the student to solve problems relating to size dependent physical, optical and electrical properties at the nanoscale.
Syllabus:
Course will cover: (1) Chemical and physical properties as length scales vary from the macroscale through microscale to the nanoscale. (2) Study of fundamental properties of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes and nanoparticles in terms of geometries, tensile strength, and electronic properties (3) Functionalisation of inorganic nanostuctures with organic molecules and the bio/nano interface (4) Molecular driving forces including quantum interactions and molecular dynamics (5) Application to design and synthesis of advanced materials for renewable energy, medical diagnostics, and food production.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
Demonstrate a firm understanding of the important implications of the nanoscale physics that operates when reducing the size of materials to the nanoscale - Calculate physical properties, melting point, torque etc as a function of scaling. - Derive and apply quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics related equations for nanoscale phenomena (density functional theory and free energy calculations). Show knowledge of fundamental principles of inorganic-organic materials and self-assembled materials.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module students will have an appreciation of the importance of nanotechnology for future devices and applications, how it will affect our lives, and of the safety implications.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module is taught through lectures, tutorials and laboratory workshops. The practical element of the course also includes student presentations encompassing literature reviews of recent high impact nanotechnology research.
Prime Texts:
Hornyak, Gabor L. Moore, J. J., Dutta, Joydeep, Tibbals, Harry F., (2009)
Introduction to nanoscience & nanotechnology
, Taylor & Francis
Susan E. Cozzens, Jameson Wetmore (2011)
Nanotechnology and the challenges of equity, equality and development
, Springer, New York
Michael Berger (2016)
Nanotechnology: the future is tiny
, Royal Society of Chemistry
Micheal Berger (2020)
Nanoengineering: the skills and tools making technology invisible
, Royal Society of Chemistry
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (EDUCATION) IN BIOLOGY WITH PHYSICS OR CHEMISTRY OR AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (EDUCATION) IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE WITH CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
Sarah.Guerin@ul.ie