Course Outline
MATLS 4FF03 – Synthesis, Applications and Environmental Impact of
Nanomaterials
Winter 2023
Classroom :
ABB 270
Lecture time
:
Tuesdays 12:30pm, Wednesdays 12:30pm and Fridays 12:30pm
Office hours :
Mondays 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Instructor :
Maureen Joel Lagos (mjlagos@mcmaster.ca)
TA :
Marcelo Martinho (donizetm@mcmaster.ca)
Course Objectives:
The course aims to provide the basic knowledge to synthesize a variety of nanoscale
materials. Their properties and applications are also presented, so as their impact of
these materials on the environment and health.
Course Outcomes:
At the end of the course, students are expected to show the ability to:
Understand the fundamentals of nano-scale physical phenomena.
Understand and describe the main synthesis techniques available to
produce/generate nanoscale materials.
Select the tools and synthesis techniques that are most suitable for a given
application, including characterization techniques.
Assess the environmental and health impact of these nanomaterials for the end
users (e.g. toxicity) and for the manufacturing process (synthesis methods that
are more environmentally friendly and less toxic during production and more
sustainable).
Course topics:
Introduction to the nanoscale, physics and chemistry of surfaces, nanoparticles
synthesis, nanowire growth, two-dimensional growth (thin films), three-
dimensional growth, environmental impact (air, soil, water), green synthesis, health
impact, nanomaterials properties (thermodynamical, mechanical, optical,
electrical), nanomaterials characterization and nanomaterials application.
