Nanomaterials for chemical engineering application

Summary

This course provides an overview on nanoparticle synthesis and their use in different energy-related applications. The first part of the course is more fundamental and chemistry oriented. The second part is more applied and chemical engineering oriented. The goal is to link the two aspects.

Content

Keywords

nanomaterials, classical nucleation theory, molecular chemistry, photovoltaics, light emitting diodes, solar fuels, electrocatalysis

Learning Outcomes

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

• Describe the differences between properties of bulk and properties of nanomaterials
• Discuss classical and non-classical nucleation theory
• Identify the most suitable synthesis technique to prepare the nanomaterial of choice
• Elaborate the benefits of nanomaterials in energy applications and catalysis.

Transversal skills

• Communicate effectively with professionals from other disciplines.
• Make an oral presentation.
• Collect data.
• Write a scientific or technical report.

Teaching methods

slides, videos, inverted classroom, laboratory at the end of the semester at EPFL Valais

Expected student activities

inverted classroom, 2 days in the laboratory (at EPFL Valais in Sion)

Note: We combine together the 14 practical work hours at the end of the semester so to have 2 full days in the laboratory where students will synthesize nanocrystals, characterize  them and test them as electrocatalysts for CO2 reductlon

Assessment methods

Oral exam (60%), lab report (20%), Inverted classroom (20%)

Resources

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/ChE-430