Soft matter

Summary

The first part of the course is devoted to the self-assembly of molecules. In the second part we discuss basic physical chemical principles of polymers in solutions, at interfaces, and in bulk. Finally, we look at colloids and emulsions.

Content

Keywords

soft materials, self-assembly, organic molecules, polymers, colloids

Learning Prerequisites

Recommended courses

Physical chemistry of polymeric materials

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Design molecules that assemble into a desired superstructure
• Predict the influence of changes in the structure of molecules on their self-assembly behavior
• Estimate the influence of the structure of soft materials on their properties
• Modify surfaces to impart a desired functionality to them
• Design colloids with a tunable interparticle interaction
• Design microscopic materials made from colloidal buildling blocks
• Design stable emulsions and dispersions

Teaching methods

Exercises will be incorporated into the lectures

Expected student activities

Solving Exercises on a weekly basis

Presentation of a challange: This includes an oral presentation and a written report

Assessment methods

One student project presented within the last two weeks of the semester and one written examination. The student project counts for 25% the examination for 75% of the final grade.

Supervision

Resources

Bibliography

Soft Condensed matter, Richard A. L. Jones, Oxford Master Series in Condensed Matter Physics

Ressources en bibliothèque

• Soft Condensed Matter / Jones
• Polymer Chemistry / Lodge

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/MSE-425