Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Functional Inorganic Materials
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11IS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
Code:
5.
Availability as an
Elective

Yes
No
Date Of Replacement:
MChem in Chemistry, BSc (Hons) in Chemistry with Materials, MChem Chemistry with Materials, MChem in Chemistry with
Pharmaceutical Chemistry, MChem in Chemistry with Forensic Science, MChem in Chemistry with Industrial Experience,
7. Aims
The module aims to present advanced methods particularly important in modern Inorganic Chemistry, including:
 Chemical vapour deposition
 Magnetochemistry
 Advanced solid-state chemistry
8. Syllabus





Chemical vapour deposition – Introduction to the technique of MOCVD and its applications. Use in the construction of photovoltaic devices and infra-red
detectors. II/VI and III/V semiconductors. Organometallics and MOCVD precursors; a survey. Chemical/physical assessment or precursors. Decomposition of
organometallics in the gas phase. Gas phase reactions. The use of gas chromatography / mass spectrometry in the testing of precursors.
Magnetochemistry – Revision of atomic structure, angular momentum, term symbols, spin-orbit coupling, Zeeman effect. Origin of paramagnetism and
diamagnetism in materials. Units in magnetism. Measurement techniques. Temperature dependence of magnetic behaviour and its applications in inorganic
chemistry. Co-operative magnetism.
Advanced Solid-State Chemistry - Synthesis and Structures of Solids
Electronic Properties of Solids – Band theory of solids ; effects of electron repulsion ; breakdown of band theory ; Mott insulators ; semiconductors and metals.
Structures and Properties of Important Solid State Materials – topics include perovskite oxides, high-tempertaure superconductors, low-dimensional solids, and
intercalation compounds.
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Functional Inorganic Materials
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11IS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to demonstrate:
 Detailed critical knowledge of some important techniques relevant to modern inorganic chemistry
 Critical understanding of the theory, principles and concept of the techniques studied
 An understanding of the limitations and capabilities of each technique
 An appreciation of the relevance and applicability of each technique
 Integrate previous knowledge from across all of chemistry with the topics discussed in the module
 Use principles identified in this module to solve relevant problems of an advanced nature
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Critically review and consolidate knowledge, skills and practices in chemistry
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and evaluate a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Use a range of software to support and enhance work at an advanced level
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials, assessments (formative and summative) and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise initiative and independence in carrying out learning activities
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Modular Examination
Continuous Assessment
2h
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
70%
30%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
27 September, 2007
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
Version
Number
1.0
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