Experimental Methods and Autonomous Experimentation in Soft Materials Research -Theory and Practice

1 Course Unit

This course covers the relevant theory and practical application of experimental methods used to study the structure, dynamics and physico-chemical properties of soft matter and macromolecular materials. Machine learning and autonomous experimentation in soft materials research are also addressed as important topics of contemporary concern. Systems of interest include self-assembled polymers and (macro)molecular materials, liquid crystals, colloidal suspensions, biological materials, gels, and other complex fluids. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of kinematic theory for X-ray scattering, methods of structure determination by (x-ray/ electron) diffraction, microscopy (optical; atomic force; electron), dynamic scattering (light/optical; x-ray; neutron) and rheology (bulk and microrheology). Thermo-mechanical, electronic and optical property characterization are also addressed. Lectures are complemented by lab exercises and projects. The subject matter is relevant for students conducting experimental research on macromolecular materials, soft matter and complex fluids, including those seeking to use tools of data science to advance such work. Spring 1 Course Unit