The purpose of the course is to approach the student to the world of the production of nanomaterials and of their industrial applications (“how they are produced, how they are used and regulated”). During the course, the nanomaterials that are currently mostly used, namely carbon based materials and oxides, and the new types of nanomaterials that have been developed in the last two decades will be considered. Environmental, toxicological and regulatory aspects related to the production and the application of nanomaterials will be considered. In this regard, it is expected the involvement in the course of experts of industry sectors.

The student will know and understand the main production techniques and uses of some selected nanomaterials. He/she will be able to make a report and take a coordinated presentation with other students on a topic of choice, showing appropriate communication skill. The student will have to attend the presentations of the other students. He/she is invited to ask questions to colleagues and receive questions from other colleagues during presentations.

Introduction: Definitions, Overview on conventional sand innovative nanomaterials, Overview on producers and users: demand and consumption, research and development, production, market and distribution.

Materials: production and commercial application: Conventional nanomaterials: carbon black and amorphous silica. Production processes and applications. New materials: i. Metal and non-metal oxides. Synthesis and applications. ii. Metals: nanowires and nanocluster. Synthesis and applications. iii. Carbon based materials. Nanotubes. Synthesis of catalysts. Production processes (CVD). Purification and functionalization of carbon nanotubes. Applications. Graphene: synthesis by chemical and physical techniques. Applications. iv. Thin films produced by PVD techniques. v. Others nanomaterials. 

Environmental, toxicological and regulatory issues: Introduction, REACH e CLP.

The main body of the course is represented by topics carbon nanomaterials, nanoporous electrochemical oxides and thin films. Emphasis will be placed on the industrial production processes and the commercial applications.

Fundamentals of physics and chemistry.

The exam will be oral and it will consist in a group presentations, on selected topics about the applications of nanomaterials. The students are required to show a complete knowledge and understanding of the topics that will be presented. The quality of the presentations, and communication ability shown by the student will represent a relevant part of the final evaluation.