Physical Chemistry of Solid State and Surface

A.Y. 2018/2019
6
Max ECTS
48
Overall hours
SSD
CHIM/02
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The aim is to introduce the students to the physical chemistry of the solid state emphasizing the close relationships among structure, defect thermodynamics and physical properties of crystalline and amorphous phases. To this purpose, concepts of the solid state of matter, of its properties and of the pertinent experimental techniques are shown. Examples include magnetoresistive, (multi)ferroic and superconductive materials.
Expected learning outcomes
Mastering structures of crystalline materials by the symmetry and connectivity point of view. Comprehension of defects thermodynamics. Theoretical and practical knowledge of experimental techniques for average and local structural investigation. Comprehension of the electronic and magnetic properties of solids, focusing on electron correlation, electron localisation and collective phenomena.
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Goals
The aim is to introduce the students to the physical chemistry of the solid state emphasizing the close relationships among structure, defect thermodynamics and physical properties of crystalline and amorphous phases. To this purpose, concepts of the solid state of matter, of its properties and of the pertinent experimental techniques are shown. Examples include magnetoresistive, (multi)ferroic and superconductive materials.

Acquired skills
Mastering structures of crystalline materials by the symmetry and connectivity point of view. Comprehension of defects thermodynamics. Theoretical and practical knowledge of experimental techniques for average and local structural investigation. Comprehension of the electronic and magnetic properties of solids, focusing on electron correlation, electron localisation and collective phenomena.


Course content

Crystal structure: symmetry in solids following the Hermann-Mauguin notation. Properties of space groups. Structure classification of inorganic crystalline phases. Structure and thermodynamics of amorphous phases.

Defects in solids: point and extended defects in metals, semiconductors and compounds; their influence on the physical properties of solids (structure, charge transport, magnetic properties).

Magnetic properties of solids: basic magnetism, atomic origins of magnetism; ferromagnetism ferrimagnetism, antiferromagnetism; magnetic anisotropy, magnetoresistance; magnetic data storage

Experimental techniques for structural investigation: introduction to diffraction; principles of special relativity; synchrotron radiation and neutron sources for research; applications of X-ray powder diffraction to material science; Pair Distribution Function Analysis; Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure.

Electrons in solids: brief introduction to the band structure; electronic correlation in solids and localisation phenomena: Hubbard model, polarons, Anderson Localisation. Magnetoresistive and (poly)ferroic materials. Introduction to superconductivity and superconductive materials.

Suggested prerequisites
Basic knowledge of symmetry, diffraction and band theory. These concepts are described in an extended form in the following courses: Cristallochimica, Strutturistica chimica and/or Chimica Fisica B

Reference material
"Solid State Chemistry and its applications", Anthony R. West, Wiley India ed. 2007
"Magnetic Materials", N. Spaldin, Cambridge University Press, 2006
"The Electronic Structure and Chemistry of solids" P.A. Cox, Oxford Univ. Press


Prerequisites
none

Assessment method
The examination is oral, in general 30-40 minutes long, and consists of open questions on topics discussed in classroom lectures. Discussions during the exam will help to figure out the student's skill level.

Language of instruction
Italian.

Attendance Policy:
Strongly recommended.

Mode of teaching:
The course is organized through a series of lectures using both slides and the blackboard.

Website:
Supporting material will be provided to the students upon request. The slides will be supplied before the pertinent lessons.

Other information:
Teachers are always available for any explanation upon fixing an appointment via email.
CHIM/02 - PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor: Scavini Marco
Professor(s)
Reception:
from Monday to Thursday from 9.00 am to 05.00 pm, by appointment via email
videoconference or Chemistry Dept., wing C, ground floor, room R020