Module Outline

This module aims to expose students to more advanced synthetic methods than experienced to this point. These techniques will involve multistep, air-sensitive and solid state synthesis. Additionally the module requires students to compare and contrast the success of different synthetic approaches in terms of quality of product obtained. Students are encouraged to critically assess their synthetic approach and to take a more investigative attitude to practical chemistry. In the second part of the module students are exposed to a range of instrumental techniques (electrochemistry, Density Functional Theory (DFT) that will allow them to analyse the compounds they have synthesised to extract physical parameters.

Module Aims

At the end of the module students should be able to:

Use different advanced synthetic techniques in molecular and solid-state synthesis.
 Carry out cyclic voltammetry experiments and analyse the results. They will use this technique to carry out a short independent investigation.
 Construct a battery and analyse battery performance.
 Use Density Functional Theory (DFT) to calculate the properties of molecules.
 Keep a lab book, carry out risk assessments for their synthetic procedures, considering environment impacts of different synthetic approaches and performing searches of the scientific literature and referencing.
 Practice key transferable skills, including use of Word, Excel and ChemDraw to prepare lab reports and research articles.
Teaching and Learning Methods

Laboratories: In Synthesis 1 students will undertake three compulsory practicals in aspects of organic, inorganic and solid state materials synthesis.  In Instrumental 1 students will undertake three compulsory practicals in electrochemistry, construction of a battery and computational DFT..

Self-study: In addition to timetabled hours it is expected that you engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form of completing pre-lab activities, analyzing data, writing up lab reports and further reading in textbooks, lecture notes, primary literature and online.