Physisorption for Surface Area and Porosity Characterization, 3.0 credits

Entry requirements

For students enrolled in PhD studies within physics, materials chemicstry, chemistry, materials science, and related areas Specific entry requirements for this course.

Specific information

Course period: September-October, provided there is sufficient interest.

This course provides an overview of the theory and application of physisorption methods for analyzing surface area and porosity of various materials.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course the students will be able to:

• Understand and explain the theory for physisorption and models for surface area and porosity determination.
• Critically analyze physisorption data and relate it to material characteristics.
• Show practical skills in efficient useage of physisorption equipment.

Contents

Physisorption is a technique used to analyze the surface area and porosity of different materials. The course includes fundamental theory behind the technique, descriptions of the models used for data interpretation, as well as practical training in the use of measurement equipment.

The course covers:

• The theory behind physisorption, including the selection of gases and interpretation of isotherms
• Surface area analysis using Langmuir and BET models
• Models for porosity analysis
• Interpretation and presentation of data
• Introduction to chemisorption

The course includes a laboratory session in which students have the opportunity to measure either their own sample or a reference sample. During the laboratory work, students are expected to design an experimental program suitable for the material under study, perform measurements, and analyze the data.

Educational methods

Lectures and a laboratory exercise, studies of scientific papers.

Examination

Written report and complited laboratory exercise.

Grading

Course literature

Lecture notes, scientific papers, and other hand-outs.