D1) Knowledge and understanding: at the end of the course, the student will learn the main aspects of characterization of nanomaterials and will be capable to analyse raw data from the laboratory experiences. D2) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: the student will be able to apply the theoretical fundamentals of characterization techniques to rationalize the properties of synthesized nanomaterials and applications based on them. D3) Autonomy of judgment: at the end of the course, the student will be able to independently elaborate, extract and analyse the most important parameters and physico-chemical information related to nanomaterials and rationalize their meaning in the context of material science of nanosystems. D4) Communication skills: at the end of the course, the student will possess the proper scientific communication skills required to discuss about the results of characterization of nanomaterials in a rational manner to both specialists and non-specialists. Moving from practical laboratory experiences, the student will be able to highlight the differences between nanomaterials and bulk materials, describe and predict synthesis and reactivity of nanomaterials. D5) Learning skills: the student will gain the tools necessary to independently rationalise and plan synthetic protocols of nanomaterials and interpret the raw data obtained from physico-chemical techniques, at the basis of future courses in nanotechnology.

Knowledge of basic organic, inorganic, physical and structural chemistry, practical skills in organic and inorganic chemistry laboratory.

This course addresses the preparation and characterization of representative inorganic, hybrid organic-inorganic and purely nanomaterials. The most commonly used characterization techniques will be presented (powder XRD, SAXS, physisorption, XAFS, 1H-NMR, DLS and rhelogical analysis) and employed to analyse the materials synthesized in both the modules. The raw data acquired from the experiments will be analysed during classes and the results will be discussed to rationalize the effect of nanostructure on the properties of the materials.

Adequate scientific papers will be provided to the students at the beginning of the course accordingly to the synthetic protocols chosen for each accademic year

Brust-Schiffrin synthesis of alkanethiolate protected gold nanoparticles. Evaluation of the effect of the gold/thiol molar ratio on nanoparticles size. Analysis of the correlation between size and line broadening in the nanoparticles 1H-NMR spectra. Study of the optical absorption properties of nanoparticles as a function of their gold core size, determination of the nanoparticles solvodynamic

Introductory lectures, laboratory experiences and class discussion of the experimental results.

Attendance at the laboratory activities is mandatory. The students are required to attend at least 80% of the scheduled hours. The teaching is divided into two parts: the first part concerns the preparation and characterization of inorganic nanomaterials and is carried out by Tiziano Montini. The second part concerns the preparation and characterization of organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials and 'soft' organic materials. and is carried out by Paolo Pengo.

The evaluation of this course will require the preparation of an experimental report regarding the activities performed in the laboratory classes, with the analysis of acquired data and discussion of the results in the context of nanomaterials. The final examination will consist of an oral exam aimed to demonstrate the achievement of the teaching objectives. That will focus on the topics presented during the course by presentation of a scientific paper from the literature (chosen by the student) and by discussion of specific aspects of the experimental report. Starting from the presentation, the exam includes a minimum of four questions aimed at verifying the level of knowledge of the techniques, the level of mastery of technical language and the ability to develop reasoning by applying theoretical knowledge to the experimental data presented. The final evaluation is formulated according to the following grid: Excellent (30 - 30 with honors): excellent knowledge of the subject, excellent command of language, the student shows excellent ability to apply the basic knowledge of the characterization techniques for interpretation of the experimental results presented. Very good (27 - 29): good knowledge of the topics, notable command of language; the student is able to correctly apply the basic knowledge of the characterization techniques for interpretation of the experimental data presented. Good (24-26): good knowledge of the topics, fair command of language; the student shows an adequate ability to apply the basic knowledge of the characterization techniques to the interpretation of the experimental data presented. Satisfactory (21-23): the student does not show full mastery of the subject, although he/she has basic understanding of the topics; however, he/she shows sufficient command of language and sufficient ability to apply the principles of the characterization techniques to the interpretation of the experimental data presented. Sufficient (18-20): minimal knowledge of the subject and minimal use of technical language, limited ability to adequately apply the theoretical knowledge for interpretation of the experimental data presented. Insufficient: the student does not possess an acceptable knowledge of the subject.

Lectures will not directly discuss subjects related to the Objectives of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development