Analytical Chemistry for the Excellence of the Territory

A.Y. 2025/2026
6
Max ECTS
48
Overall hours
SSD
CHIM/01
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
Application to complex matrices and real cases of the theoretical principles and basic methods of the most important analytical techniques learned in the fundamental courses of analytical chemistry. Selection of methods and protocols of applicative interest in the field of production / protection / control / certification of "excellence" of the Italian territory.
Expected learning outcomes
- To achieve a more mature understanding of analytical strategies and protocols, particularly considering cases involving real and/or more complex matrices than those dealt with in base courses.
- To expand (in terms of case studies and detail) the knowledge of application cases, with particular regard to those of interest to the excellence of our country.
- To acquire knowledge, through real case studies, of the role and working method of the analytical chemist in fundamental sectors for our society and our territory.
Single course

This course can be attended as a single course.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
Presentation and discussion of a series of detailed examples of analytical laboratory methods, instruments and protocols applied to:
a) Protection of territory and population welfare, with case studies related to
a1) environmental issues (air and water quality, climate change )
a2) analysis and protection of cultural heritage (authentication, attribution, conservation...)
a3) health checks and tests (medical, medical/forensic, medical/sports diagnostic tests/kits )

b) Analysis/control/certification of relevant local products, with case studies linked to:
b1) agri-food production (wines and other drinks of natural origin; milk and dairy products; cereals; oils and fats; meat, and fish ).

b2) handicraft/manufacturing productions (metals; stones and gems; wood; plastic materials; ceramic materials; textile fibers; pigments/dyes; perfumes and cosmetics )

c) Further insights

c1) The role of chemical analysis in "DOP"/"DOC"/DOCG" certifications

c2) The chemometric approach to food classification and control. Foodomics. Electronic noses and tongues imitating the sensory analysis of odors/perfumes and flavors.
Prerequisites for admission
Fundamentals of analytical chemistry. Theoretical principles and basic operating methods of the most important analytical techniques (which can be acquired in the three fundamental analytical chemistry courses).
Fundamentals of mathematics/numerical methods, physics, physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry.
Teaching methods
Lectures and possibly, considering that the course focuses on real cases, expert seminars and/or guided educational visits.
Teaching Resources
Given the nature of the course topics, i.e. examples of detailed methods/procedures/protocols, and the rapidity with which instrumental analytical chemistry evolves, the reference material will above all include
· recent scientific articles (available in the UNIMI online library)
· legal regulations
· methods/procedures/protocols by Italian and foreign regulatory bodies
However, it is essential to keep as a basic reference the texts of the three fundamental courses in Analytical Chemistry.
As further references on specific topics many ebooks are currently available in the UNIMI online library.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Oral examination (30/30) with presentation of a detailed project in which the student (alone or in a group) presents and discuss a literature case study followed by questions on the course topics.
CHIM/01 - ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor(s)
Reception:
First floor, Building A, Chemistry Department
Reception:
Monday-Friday 9-17, by appointment
Office, via Golgi 19, Edificio 5, Corpo A, III floor, room 3113-O