Course detail

Introduction to Chemistry of Materials

FCH-BC_UMCHAcad. year: 2025/2026

The course aims to provide basic knowledge of Materials Chemistry and Physics. Emphasis is placed on (i) the basic properties of the solid phase, (ii) the understanding of the underlying phenomena that are in the solid phase and (iii) the examples of applications where these materials are used. Part of the course is a brief introduction to the techniques of studying selected properties. The course ends with an outline of possible future applications of advanced materials.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Guarantor

prof. Mgr. Martin Vala, Ph.D.

Department

Institute of Physical and Applied Chemistry (ÚFSCH)

Entry knowledge

Not applicable.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

The course ends with a test (oral or written) in which students demonstrate acquired knowledge. To obtain the credit it is necessary to elaborate a semester project. Quality semester project will be reflected in the overall evaluation of the course.
A lecture of two hours per week for full-time study ends with an exam. Part of the exam is also the defense of the semester work, which students prepare for a selected theme from the course. The combined form of teaching is supported by an elearning course in which students are provided with learning support including electronic textbooks, presentations from lectures and others.

Aims

The aim is to introduce the fundamentals of chemistry and physics of the solid phase of both inorganic and organic materials.
Upon completion of the course the students will be equipped with basic knowledge of material chemistry and physics. They will be acquainted with the basic processes and phenomena that occur in these substances and will understand selected applications using optical electrical and other properties of these substances.

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

Kratochvíl B. Chemie a fyzika pevných látek I. Praha, VŠCHT Praha, 1994, ISBN 80-7080-196-4 (CS)
Kratochvíl B. Základy fyziky a chemie pevných látek II. Praha, VŠCHT Praha, 1990, ISBN 80-7080-055-0 (CS)

Type of course unit

Lecture

26 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. Mgr. Martin Vala, Ph.D.

Syllabus

1. Binding forces in solids.
2. Structure of solid phase of inorganic and organic materials.
3. Fundamentals of the band structure.
4. Mechanical, magnetic and thermal properties
5. Optical Properties I
6. Optical Properties II
7. Electrical properties I
8. Electrical properties II
9. Selected examples of applications
10. Selected techniques of study of materials structure
11. Selected methods of study of optical and electrical properties
12. Selected methods of preparation
13. New advanced applications