Nano-Science and Nano-Technology: (Bio)Polymers and (Bio)Composites

Volledige vakbeschrijving

This course will focus on the study of materials on the nano-meter scale, i.e. materials with dimensions in the range of 10-9m. The properties of materials change when applied in this nano- scale. In nanotechnology structures of nano-meter precision are fabricated, elucidating functionalities at micro- and macroscopic length scales. Especially in (bio)composites nanoparticles can be used to modify the properties of materials. Therefore it is of interest to study natural occurring bio-nano- structures and composites, to understand their fabrication paths and consequential physical, chemical and mechanical properties at micro- and macroscopic length scale. Characterization tools elucidating the nano-sized structures comprise for example X-ray and neutron diffraction/ scattering techniques, transmission electron microscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The next step in the course is to translate this knowledge into synthetic, bio-inspired materials that can lead to industrial or medical (in-vivo) application of nanomaterials like organic semi-conductors, antimicrobial coatings and bio-sensoring. Description of skills training during the course: Part of the skills training will be devoted to intense literature study, which will lead to a small research plan. The students will have to make a set of novel composite materials and determine the chemical, physical and/or mechanical properties of their materials.