4 ECTS credits
120 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4019779ENR for all students in the 1st semester at a (E) Master - advanced level.
This course includes theoretical sessions, theoretical exercises and laboratory work regarding polymer chemistry.
Polymer chemistry concerns the chemistry of the synthesis of macromolecules. These molecules with long chain lengths are the basic constituents of plastics, coatings, adhesives, thermosets and rubbers. The detailed control of chemical composition and chain architecture of these macromolecules determines their morphology after processing. This also determines the properties of the final material and the applications for which the various polymers can be used. In this course, the student will learn how polymers can be synthesized. It will be discussed how changing the polymerisation mechanism affects the formation of different molecular microstructures, and thus different material properties, starting from the same constituents (the ‘monomers’). This course aims at knowledge and understanding in relation to (1) polymer synthesis, (2) the molecular characterization of polymers, and (3) their most important solid state properties, both from a theoretical and practical view point.
The theoretical part starts with the classification of polymers, basic principles and definitions. Subsequently, a comprehensive overview of the synthesis of polymers according to different polymerization mechanisms and using different polymerization techniques is discussed, from classical routes to state-of-the-art methods. In each case, also the kinetics of different polymerization mechanisms is discussed. Step growth polymerization, chain growth polymerization and copolymerization is discussed in depth. The thermodynamics of polymers in solution and the conformation of polymers in solution and in the amorphous state are discussed in relation to analytical techniques for measuring the molecular weight (distribution) of polymers. The course ends with an overview of the most important solid state properties. The theory is applied to solve both theoretical and practical problems.
During the practical sessions, polymers will be synthesized using the taught polymerization mechanisms and techniques. The preparation for the polymer synthesis includes a limited analysis of modern scientific literature. The polymers synthesized will be molecularly characterized and their most important solid state properties, such as thermal stability, the glass transition, the melting trajectory, and mechanical properties will be determined using modern analysis techniques.
* This course cannot be chosen in combination with 'Applied Physicochemistry' (Dutch: Toegepaste Fysicochemie)
* course slides will be made available on-line
* handbook is available at the VUBtiek
The envisaged learning outcomes include the ability of the student to analyze, comprehend, solve and communicate on practical and theoretical problems or aspects related to polymer chemistry both in the framework of the future education at Master level, as well as in an industrial context. After completion of this course, the student is able to:
1) reproduce a number of knowledge elements in polymer chemistry.
2) apply the most important molecular characterization mechanisms and techniques for polymers in solution.
3) make choices regarding the type of polymerization mechanisms and techniques in relation to the wanted macromolecular microstructure and properties and applications of the resulting polymer. The student is able to think and work in a problem solving way, can select and apply methods, and can perform a literature search and critically analyze the obtained data.
4) can apply above mentioned knowledge in new problem settings.
5) can report on the choice of polymerization techniques and analysis methods, on the obtained results and can formulate conclusions from gathered information. The student is able to work precisely and can verify obtained results. The student can communicate at an advanced level on information, ideas, problems and results in the domain.
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Oral Exam determines 75% of the final mark.
PRAC Practical Assignment determines 25% of the final mark.
Within the Oral Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Within the PRAC Practical Assignment category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral evaluation with possibility of a short preparation time.
The WPO (exercises) is compulsory and necessary to pass the exam. There is no possibility to redo the practical exercises in the 2nd examination session (August/September).
The evaluation of the lab sessions (attitude in the lab, adherence to safety protocols, practical skills and efficiency), together with a concise presentation of the lab sessions during the oral exam, is counted for 25% of the final score.
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology: Chemical Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)