Physical Chemistry of Disperse Systems and of Interfaces

Goals
The goal of the course is to provide a general frame-work of the different physico-chemical aspects of surfaces and interfaces also with reference to the numerous experimental applications of these systems.

Acquired skills
The student becomes familiar with the general principles ruling the interfacial reactivity in the different systems. He further learns by which kind of experimental measurements he might obtain a complete characterization of such systems, also on the grounds of experiments performed personally in the laboratory.

Course content
The properties of gases. The kinetic theory of gases. The Maxwell-Boltzman distribution. Real gases. The First Law. Work and heat. Thermochemistry. Heat capacity. The Second Law. Entropy changes of specific processes. The Third Law. Heat engines. The Helmoltz and Gibbs energies. The Gibbs-Helmoltz equation. The chemical potential. The thermodynamic description of mixtures. The Gibbs-Duhem equation. Colligative properties. Physical transformation of pure substances. Phase stability and phase transitions. The Clapeyron e Clausius-Clapeyron equations. Chemical equilibrium. The response of equilibria to pressure and temperature. The van't Hoff equation.

During the Experimental Laboratory physico-chemical parameters are determined (ΔU, ΔH, equilibrium constants, CMC of surfactants) through the elaboration of different measurements (calorimetry, spectrophotometry, conductivity, vapor tension) on the grounds of thermodynamic relations.

Suggested prerequisites
None

Reference material
- G. T. Barnes and I. R. Gentle, Interfacial Science, Oxford University Press, 2005.
- J. Lyklema, Fundamentals of Interface and Colloid Science, Academic Press, 2005.
- Teaching material given by the professor

Assessment method:
The assessment method is an oral examination concerning the topics presented during the course and the experiments performed in the laboratory. During the exam the student discusses the different principles underlying the behavior of surfaces and interfaces.
The final mark is also determined by the evaluation of the Laboratory Relation.

Attendance Policy:
The attendance to the laboratory experiments is mandatory while the attendance to the course is heartily welcomed.

Mode of teaching:
Class room lessons and short laboratory experiments to verify the studied principles.

Language:
English