URL study guide
https://tue.osiris-student.nl/onderwijscatalogus/extern/cursus?cursuscode=6EMA51&collegejaar=2025&taal=enDescription
Starting from the physical basis of each technique, subsequently their relevance, range of application, strength and weaknesses will be discussed based on illustrative examples from different classes of inorganic and organic materials. To have a good integration of the discussed matter, i.e. which technique should be used for which problem, case studies of integrated characterization problems will be tackled by small groups of students.
UV-Vis, IR, Raman, XPS, XAS, EDX, EELS
Basics of each technique will be discussed with emphasis on spectral differences, different background, and different probe volume of the techniques. Applications will focus on elemental analysis, chemical structure, as well as spatially resolved (in-situ) spectroscopy.
Real-space techniques:
OM, AFM, SEM, FIB, (S)TEM, ET, Image analysis
The physical basis of each imaging technique will be discussed with emphasis on resolution and the relevant length scales (atomic to mm detail) at which problems can be addressed, the difficulties and steps in preceding sample preparation, and time or equipment constraints in achievable sampling/examined volumes. Additionally, extensions to 3D imaging will be presented including approaches for morphology quantification by image analysis.
Electron Diffraction, WAXS, SAXS, SALS, DLS
Basics of crystallography (unit cells and Miller indices) will be discussed together with the concept of reciprocal space. Also extensions to scattering of larger structures using x-rays and light will be discussed including data analysis.
Objectives
Aim of the course:
The course “Characterization of Materials” aims at providing the prospective MSc. student with a broad knowledge of characterization techniques (available at the department) to solve analytical problems that he/she may encounter during the thesis work. The intention is to discuss both: the physical background required for a clear understanding of a technique, combined with a range of examples but without attempting to be exhaustive or educating specialists in a single technique. Emphasis is placed on elucidating structure, composition and morphology of materials over multiple length scales using smart combinations of complementary techniques. Such knowledge is essential in the development of new materials for energy harvesting, conversion and storage; complex molecular systems for heath care applications, or in the understanding of structure-performance relations in general.
a) Targets for learning and competencies
The student should
1. be able to explain the basic physical concept underlying a specific technique.
2. judge when to apply and how to combine techniques to solve an analytical problem.
3. assess limitations of possible approaches with respect to sample, problem, time, costs.
b) Not subject-bound competencies:
Team work on case study, Presenting and Reporting in English