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IM2658 Experimental Techniques - Bulk 6.0 credits

Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.
Headings with content from the Course syllabus IM2658 (Autumn 2008–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

An introduction to bulk nanostructured materials and nanocomposites will be presented. This course aims at teaching the students underlying principles of analytical techniques that are commonly used for the evaluation of bulk properties of materials. These include surface analysis technique FTIR spectroscopy; optical properties evaluation by UV-Vis spectroscopy; crystallographic phase identification by XRD; thermal properties evaluation using TGA and DSC; microstructure investigation by Electron microscopy (SEM and HRTEM); surface area analysis by BET surface area analyzer; electrical property measurement using four-probe technique; magnetic properties by VSM and mechanical properties using indenters.

Intended learning outcomes

After a successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

  • Describe techniques used for the evaluation of surface properties of materials.
  • Explain the underlying principle of means of detection/signal generation for surface analysis techniques.
  • Name and describe techniques used for structural characterization of materials.
  • Name and describe techniques used for investigation of thermal properties of materials.
  • Name and describe techniques used for microstructure investigation of materials.
  • Name and describe techniques used for magnetic characterization of materials.
  • Name and describe techniques used for investigation of optical properties of materials.
  • Name and describe techniques used for investigation of magnetic properties of materials.
  • Interpret analysis results from an FT-IR spectrum.
  • Interpret XRD results and relate it to homogeneity of material.
  • Interpret TGA thermogram, indicating corresponding physical/chemical changes.
  • Interpret DSC thermogram, indicating corresponding physical/chemical changes.
  • Interpret magnetic behavior of the material from VSM measurement.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

No information inserted

Recommended prerequisites

Good knowledge about physics and chemistry courses according to the study plan.

Equipment

No information inserted

Literature

Lecture notes and handouts.

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Examination

  • LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • TEN1 - Examination, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • TUT1 - Tutorials, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Evaluation of the course will be based on two assignments, two lab exercises and a final exam. Details of grading are as follows: 

2 Assignments x 1 hp:                2 hp

2 Lab Exercises x 1 hp:              2 hp

Final Exam:                                2 hp 

Further instructions will be given at the course start.

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

Examiner

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

Main field of study

Physics

Education cycle

Second cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Contact

Muhammet Toprak

Supplementary information

Language of instruction:         English