FKD3230 Surfaces, Colloids and Soft Matter 7.5 credits

Principles of Surface and Colloid Science

Thermodynamics of surface tension, adsorption and interacting surfaces, as well as the relevant experimental approaches.

Capillarity

Electrostatics of interfaces and titration of surface charge

Electrokinetic phenomena

Surface forces: double layer forces, van der Waals forces, steric forces, hydration forces and colloidal stability

Stablising dispersions

Adhesion

Wetting, including superhydrophobicity.

Applications of surface chemistry, with focus on paper industry, flotation and cleaning

Adsorption:  From gases and liquids, including polymers, polyelectrolytes and the formation of polyelectrolyte complexes.  Solution behaviour of polyectrolytes.

Surface modification

Surfcatant properties and association to micelles, vesicles, liquid crystals and biomembranes.

Emulsions, microemulsions and foams.

Gels

The aim of the course is to provide a broad, fundamental basis in surface and colloid chemistry and its applications.

Undergraduate degree in a relevant branch of science – eg materials, chemistry

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

• RAP1 - Report, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Written exam, 6.0 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.

An examination on the coursework (6 ECTS) will be performed after the course.  In addition there will be an individual essay on a subject of interest to the student worth 1.5 ECTS.

Mark Rutland

• 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.