Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the course, students will be able to:
1. Explain the fundamental concepts of functional materials from a solid-state chemistry perspective by:
- Describing key crystal structures (e.g., perovskites, spinels, layered materials) and their relevance to functionality.
- Interpreting how bonding, defects, and dimensionality influence physical and chemical properties.
- Comparing different morphologies (bulk, thin films, nanostructures) and their impact on performance in devices.
- Articulating the principles of the composition–structure–property relationship that underpin functional behaviour.
2. Critically analyse how structural features give rise to physical properties and functions by:
- Relating atomic- and micro-scale structure to properties such as electronic conductivity, magnetism, catalytic activity, and bio-compatibility.
- Evaluating case studies where changes in structure lead to significant changes in material function.
- Distinguishing between intrinsic material properties and extrinsic factors (processing, environment, interfaces) that affect performance.
3. Evaluate emerging characterisation techniques and assess their suitability for investigating functional materials by:
- Comparing the principles, strengths, and limitations of methods such as X-ray and neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and scanning probe techniques.
- Assessing how advanced in situ or operando methods can reveal dynamic structure–property relationships.
- Selecting appropriate techniques to probe specific material questions, justifying choices based on resolution, sensitivity, and scale.
4. Design strategies for tailoring material properties through compositional or structural modifications by:
- Predicting how doping, defect engineering, nanostructuring, or hybridisation may modify functional properties.
- Proposing synthesis or processing routes to achieve targeted changes in performance.
- Anticipating trade-offs (e.g., conductivity vs. stability, cost vs. scalability) when optimising materials for applications.
5. Synthesise and present advanced literature in the field by:
- Critically reading and interpreting current research papers on functional materials.
- Identifying trends, gaps, and controversies in the literature.
- Communicating findings through clear written reports and oral presentations tailored to a scientific audience.
6. Propose potential applications of functional materials to address current challenges in energy, environment, and health by:
- Connecting material properties to emerging technologies (e.g., batteries, solar cells, catalysts, biomedical devices).
- Assessing feasibility and scalability of proposed applications.
- Demonstrating creativity in linking fundamental science to technological innovation.
Indicative Module Content:
Learning Outcome 1: Fundamentals of Functional Materials (3 sessions)
Lectures
1. Introduction to functional materials: scope, applications, importance.
2. Crystal structures & defects: perovskites, spinels, layered systems; role of defects.
3. Composition–structure–property relationships: morphology, dimensionality, microstructure.
Learning Outcome 2: Linking Structure to Function (3 sessions)
Lectures
4. Electronic & ionic transport: band structure, defects, conduction pathways.
5. Magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties.
Workshop
6. Case studies: Intrinsic vs. extrinsic properties (e.g., ferroelectrics, solid electrolytes, photocatalysts).
Learning Outcome 3: Characterisation Tools (3 sessions)
Lectures
7. Diffraction & spectroscopy (XRD, neutron, XPS, Raman, NMR).
8. Microscopy & surface analysis (SEM, TEM, AFM, EELS).
Workshop
9. Emerging techniques & problem-solving: students select the “right tool” for functional material case studies.
Learning Outcome 4: Designing Materials (3 sessions)
Lectures
10. Strategies for property tuning: doping, defect engineering, nanostructuring.
11. Synthesis and processing routes: solid-state, sol-gel, microwave, thin films, self-assembly, etc.
Workshop
12. Design challenge: propose modifications to optimize performance of a chosen material (group activity).
Learning Outcome 5: Literature and Communication (3 sessions)
Lecture
13. Reading and critiquing primary literature.
14. Controversies and trends in functional materials (e.g., perovskite solar cells, solid-state batteries).
Workshop
15. Journal club: student presentations and critical discussion of selected papers.
Learning Outcome 6: Applications and Innovation (3 sessions)
Lecture
16. Functional materials in energy technologies.
17. Functional materials in environment & health.
Workshop
18. Capstone activity: students propose an innovative application of a functional material, linking structure, property and function.