2023
Colloids and Interfaces
Name: Colloids and Interfaces
Code: QUI07212L
6 ECTS
Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours
Scientific Area:
Chemistry
Teaching languages: Portuguese
Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese
Sustainable Development Goals
Learning Goals
Introduction to the chemistry and technology of colloidal systems and surfactants and to the
electrochemistry of solid particle dispersions. Introduction to characterization techniques.
At the end of the discipline, each student should be capable of identifying and describing the
characteristics of the different types of colloidal system, to explain the factors which control their
properties, stability and reactivity, de rationalise the influence of addition of surfactants or change in pH, to
present and explain diverse applications and to explain electrokinetic and other appropriate techniques for
the characterisation of charged interfaces.
electrochemistry of solid particle dispersions. Introduction to characterization techniques.
At the end of the discipline, each student should be capable of identifying and describing the
characteristics of the different types of colloidal system, to explain the factors which control their
properties, stability and reactivity, de rationalise the influence of addition of surfactants or change in pH, to
present and explain diverse applications and to explain electrokinetic and other appropriate techniques for
the characterisation of charged interfaces.
Contents
Theoretical:
Preparation and properties of colloidal systems. Gas-liquid, liquid-liquid and liquid-solid interfaces.
Laplace, Kelvin, Gibbs, Young and Poisson-Boltzmann Equations. Tensioactive agents (surfactants).
Hydrophile-lipophile balance. Micelle directed synthesis. Monocamadas. LB films. Emulsions and foams.
Emulsion polymerisation. Wetting. Detergentes. Flotation. Origin of surface charge. Electric double layer
models. Experimental methods. DLVO theory. Steric stabilisation.
Practical:
Presentation; Determination of surface tension; Gibbs isotherm; Demonstration experiments;
Determination of the cmc; Analysis of electrokinetic properties (4 classes); Resolution of problems (2
classes).
Preparation and properties of colloidal systems. Gas-liquid, liquid-liquid and liquid-solid interfaces.
Laplace, Kelvin, Gibbs, Young and Poisson-Boltzmann Equations. Tensioactive agents (surfactants).
Hydrophile-lipophile balance. Micelle directed synthesis. Monocamadas. LB films. Emulsions and foams.
Emulsion polymerisation. Wetting. Detergentes. Flotation. Origin of surface charge. Electric double layer
models. Experimental methods. DLVO theory. Steric stabilisation.
Practical:
Presentation; Determination of surface tension; Gibbs isotherm; Demonstration experiments;
Determination of the cmc; Analysis of electrokinetic properties (4 classes); Resolution of problems (2
classes).
Teaching Methods
In each theoretical a single program point is treated. The material is presented in a manner aimed at
stimulating student participation and which at the same time allows the teacher to detect gaps in their
fundamental knowledge. The lecturer will try to correct any problems during the or by way of tutorial
orientation. Acquisition of a deeper and consolidated understanding of the course content is based on the
students individual study supported by bibliography recommended by the lecturer and the students own
notes. A part of each is reserved for resolving difficulties which the students may have and to
discuss in more details aspects which they find more interesting.
Extensive lecture notes are available.
Evaluation is based on 2 tests or an exam on the theoretical content (T) and a practical assessment (P).
Final mark =0,7T+0,3P
stimulating student participation and which at the same time allows the teacher to detect gaps in their
fundamental knowledge. The lecturer will try to correct any problems during the or by way of tutorial
orientation. Acquisition of a deeper and consolidated understanding of the course content is based on the
students individual study supported by bibliography recommended by the lecturer and the students own
notes. A part of each is reserved for resolving difficulties which the students may have and to
discuss in more details aspects which they find more interesting.
Extensive lecture notes are available.
Evaluation is based on 2 tests or an exam on the theoretical content (T) and a practical assessment (P).
Final mark =0,7T+0,3P
Teaching Staff (2022/2023 )
