Chemistry

Through a broad overview of possible colloidal and nanostructured systems, the course aims to raise students’ awareness of the highly multidisciplinary nature of colloid and nanostructure science, which involves chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering, with fundamental applications in everyday life and technological development. Once this general framework is established, the course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles governing the behavior of colloidal systems and nanostructures, with particular focus on the relationship between physicochemical properties, structure, and functionality of materials at the nanoscale. At the end of the course, students will be able to: i) Understand the theoretical foundations of colloid science, including concepts of colloidal stability, intermolecular interactions (DLVO theory, van der Waals forces, electrostatic forces), and self-assembly phenomena; ii) Describe and classify colloidal particles or nanostructures (nanoparticles, micelles, liposomes, nanorods, nanotubes, etc.) based on their morphology, chemical composition, and physical properties; iii) Apply experimental and instrumental techniques such as those based on electromagnetic radiation scattering, rheological, spectroscopic, and microscopy methods, for the characterization of colloids and nanostructures; iv) Analyze the stability and dynamics of colloidal systems, evaluating the influence of physicochemical parameters such as pH, ionic strength, temperature, and concentration; v) Understand and design applications of nanostructured systems in technological fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, detergents, catalysis, and sensing; vi) Develop a critical and interdisciplinary perspective on nanostructured systems, integrating knowledge from physical chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology