2023-2024 / CHIM9319-1

Chemistry and technology of polymers

Duration

30h Th, 10h Proj., 12h Labo.

Number of credits

 Master of Science (MSc) in Biomedical Engineering5 crédits 
 Master of Science (MSc) in Chemical and Materials Engineering5 crédits 

Lecturer

Antoine Debuigne, Klaus Keck-Antoine

Coordinator

Klaus Keck-Antoine

Language(s) of instruction

English language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the second semester

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

Lectures (30 h)


Outline 

1. General Introduction on Polymers

2. Chemistry of Polymers

2.1. Polymer Structure

2.2. Polymer Properties

2.3. Polymer Synthesis

3. Technology of Polymers

3.1. Introduction and Terminology

3.2. Industrial Considerations

3.3. Polymerization Technology

3.4. Modifications during Polymerization

3.5. Mixing and Homogenization

3.6. Shaping and Orientation

3.7. Modifications with Additives

4. End-of-Life Options

4.1. Introduction and Terminology

4.2. Routes to Recycling

4.3. Requirements for Recycling

4.4. Outlook on Energy and Resource Management       


Practical laboratory work (TP; 12 hours)

The laboratory classes aim to illustrate the concepts introduced in the lectures, to apply theories in practical situations and to acquire practical skills in the field of polymer synthesis and characterization. During the laboratory works, students will notably learn how to carry out basic polymerizations and be familiarized with the most common polymer characterization techniques. The experiments will be performed in groups of two or three students. We plan to organize a collective session to summarize and discuss the results.

 

Project work (10 hours)

A literature research should deepen the general knowledge discussed in the lectures. 

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

Ability to understand the basic chemical principles and technology procedures to manufacture polymers on an industrial scale. Understanding of the corresponding advantages & limitations.

Ability to apply the acquired principles to un-known situations. Ability to assess an assigned technical project within a working group and derive joint conclusions

This course contributes to the learning outcomes I.1, I.2, II.1, II.2, II.3, III.2, III.3, III.4, IV.2, VI.1, VI.2, VII.2 of the MSc in biomedical engineering.


This course contributes to the learning outcomes I.1, I.2, II.1, II.2, II.3, III.2, III.3, III.4, IV.2, VI.1, VI.2, VII.2 of the MSc in chemical and material science engineering.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Medium level English to follow the course. Ability to present the outcome of the group project work orally in English.

Introduction to polymers physics (ULg course PHYS00038-2)

Basic organic chemistry courses.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Lectures covering theory and industrial aspects (30 h)

Practical laboratory work (12 h)

Literature search (10 h)

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

Blended learning


Additional information:

Lectures will be given based on powerpoint presentation face-to-face or by visio if required by the sanitary situation.

Practical laboratory work will take place in B6d.

Literature review-based work (self-study)

Recommended or required readings

Bonten; Plastics Technology - Introduction and Fondamentals - Hanser Publishers

Paul C. Hiemenz, Timothy P. Lodge - Polymer Chemistry- CRC Press, 2007, ISBN 9781574447798

Exam(s) in session

Any session

- In-person

written exam

Written work / report

Continuous assessment


Additional information:

Written exam in English, with no additional tools (except calculator) or books allowed.

Work placement(s)

Organisational remarks and main changes to the course

Contacts

Chemistry of Polymers: 

Debuigne Antoine

adebuigne@uliege.be

 

Technology of Polymers:

Klaus Keck

akkaklaus5691@gmail.com

 

Association of one or more MOOCs