515.416 - Introduction to Nanotechnology Course Homepage
Instructor Information
Jennifer Sample
Work Phone: (443) 778-0283Home Phone: (301) 564-6329
Course Information
Course Description
Nanoscale science and nanotechnology are broad, interdisciplinary areas, encompassing not just materials science but everything from biochemistry to electrical engineering and more. This will be a survey course introducing some of the fundamental principles behind nanotechnology and nanomaterials, as well as applications of nanotechnology. The role of solid state physics and chemistry in nanotech will be emphasized. Nanoscale tools such as surface probe and atomic force microscopy, nanolithography, and special topics such as molecular electronics will also be covered.
Course Goal
The course goal is to discuss interesting emerging nanotechnologies by providing interdisciplinary scientific and engineering knowledge necessary to understand fundamental physical differences at the nanoscale.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will understand the creation of, characterization of, and manipulation of nanoscale materials, systems, and devices and how they can be exploited for new applications.
Students will learn about exciting applications of nanotechnology at the leading edge of scientific research.
Students will apply their knowledge of nanotechnology to a topic of personal interest in this course.
When This Course is Typically Offered
This course is typically offered each fall at the Dorsey Center. The complimentary course Nanomaterials is typically offered each spring or every other spring, also at the Dorsey Center.
Syllabus
Topics Covered
- introduction
- nanoscale phenomena
- nanoparticles
- carbon nanostructures
- nanowires
- nanostructured materials
- self assembly
- surface probe microscopy
- other nanoscale characterization
- nanolithography
- nanoscale devices and systems
- applications of nanotechnology
Student Assessment Criteria
| Exam 1 | 30% |
| Exam 2 | 35% |
| Presentation | 35% |
I find three grading points (two exams and a presentation in this case) to be more effective than two exams alone. The presentation is relatively informal and typically fun for everyone in class. It is an opportunity to apply your new knowledge to a topic of personal interest.
Computer and Technical Requirements
Microsoft Powerpoint is useful for presentations.
Participation Expectations
All lecture notes will be provided prior to class and past students have found it helpful to bring them to class for note-taking. Recent scientific journal articles featuring emerging nanotechnologies will be provided and discussed in class. Sufficient training and time will be provided for presentation research and creation.
Textbooks
Textbook information for this course is available online through the MBS Direct Virtual Bookstore.
Course Notes
There are no notes for this course.
Final Words from the Instructor
I frequently get questions about prerequisites so I wanted to mention that all are welcome. Since the initial offering in 2004, we have had students from diverse backgrounds including biology, public health, mechanical engineering, etc., in addition to materials science and engineering students. In general the course experience has been very positive for students, regardless of academic background.
(Last Modified: 08-26-2008 at 2:58:31 PM)