Period: second semester

Course units contents: 

1. Mineral bulk properties: elements of mineral physics; microstructure; porosity. Case studies: composite materials; aerogels; zeolites and metal organic frameworks.
2. Thermodynamics and chemistry of aqueous solutions, thermodynamic modelling. Case studies: modelling ocean acidification and its impact on coral reefs
3. Surface properties and the mineral/water interface: specific surface area; surface defects; surface charge. Case studies: nanoparticles for environmental remediation.
4. Reaction kinetics at the mineral water/interface: dissolution, adsorption, diffusion. Case studies: soil remediation; formation of dendritic minerals.
5. Nucleation and growth: classical and non-classical theories. Case studies: perovskites for solar cells; biomimetic minerals.
6. Role of mineral forming processes in sustainable development. Case studies: cement and concrete; clay-based construction materials; urban mining.
7. Numerical modelling of nucleation and growth.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods: Powerpoint lectures; YouTube videos; interactive learning with Moodle and Wooclap; calculation of thermodynamic equilibria (GEMS software); assisted writing of MATLAB codes

Ultime modifiche: mercoledì, 1 giugno 2022, 13:06