Module overview
This module will explore the fundamental basis of intermolecular interactions and illustrate how these can be exploited to form diverse supramolecular assemblies ranging from small molecules, soft gels and hard extended inorganic solids. The course will provide a research-led overview of the current state-of-the-art in supramolecular systems and give students an awareness and appreciation of the wider aspects of chemistry and functional materials accessible through combination and assembly of organic, inorganic, coordination and biological molecules and higher-level building units.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Have an appreciation of the significance and application of supramolecular chemistry, including in dynamic combinatorial chemistry, materials chemistry (e.g. soft materials, porous hybrid and other framework solids), biological systems and the controlled construction of nanoscale entities.
- Explain non-covalent interactions, molecular recognition and self-assembly and how these can be exploited to prepare functional molecules and materials for a wide-range of applications.
- Discuss the role of supramolecular chemistry in organic chemistry, chemical biology, materials science and nanotechnology.
Syllabus
The syllabus, which is described in outline below, is aligned with the following QAA benchmark statements for chemistry at FHEQ Level 7 (Masters).
- to extend students' comprehension of key chemical concepts and so provide them with an in-depth understanding of specialised areas of chemistry;
- to develop in students the ability to adapt and apply methodology to the solution of unfamiliar types of problems;
- to instill a critical awareness of advances at the forefront of the chemical science discipline;
- to prepare students effectively for professional employment or doctoral studies in the chemical sciences;
- the ability to adapt and apply methodology to the solution of unfamiliar problems;
- knowledge base extends to a systematic understanding and critical awareness of topics which are informed by the forefront of the discipline;
- problems of an unfamiliar nature are tackled with appropriate methodology and taking into account the possible absence of complete data. This unit is a research led course with many examples coming from the recent scientific literature.
Topics to be covered in this module include:
Principles of Molecular Recognition and Self-Assembly
Overview of intermolecular forces in the context of the structural and thermodynamic origin of molecular recognition processes and the techniques use to study and measure non-covalent interactions. Historical development of supramolecular chemistry.
Applications of Self-Assembly in Host-Guest Chemistry and Catalysis
The principles and applications of supramolecular chemistry including: hosts for anions, cations and neutral molecular species; supramolecular catalysis through hydrogen bonding, preconcentration, self-assembly of catalysts and preorganisation of catalyst-substrate systems
Supramolecular aspects of chemical biology
The supramolecular chemistry of natural systems (DNA, peptides) and their chemical modification to introduce further functionalities; principles and applications of nano-biotechnology.
Self-assembly of complex structures
Extension of supramolecular principles and dynamic covalent chemistry to larger architectures including gels, cages, interlocked molecules, molecular machines, and self-replicating and evolving systems.
Metal and Covalent Framework Materials
Synthesis, properties and applications of modular porous solids such as covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), including supramolecular templating of hierarchically porous solids. Applications to be covered may include: storage and separation of strategically important gases (H2, CO2, CH4), drug delivery, catalysis and energy. For each application the challenges will be discussed and an evaluation of how these can be addressed by the composition and design of the materials presented. The dynamic behaviour of frameworks will also be discussed with respect to the (supramolecular and/or coordination) interactions which sustain the extended network structures.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods: Online lectures supported by problem classes, directed reading and BB online support.
Learning methods: Independent study, student motivated peer group study, student driven tutor support
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Follow-up work | 56 |
| Problem Classes | 10 |
| Online Course | 20 |
| Assessment tasks | 24 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 40 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Journal Articles
(2014). MOF Special Issue. Chemical Society Reviews, 43(5415).
(2017). Supramolecular Chemistry Anniversary online collection. Chemical Society Reviews.
(2011). DNA Nanotechnology Special Issue. Chemical Society Reviews, Issue 12.
(2009). MOF Special Issue. Chemical Society Reviews, 38(5 1215-1508).
Textbooks
P.A.Gale and J.W.Steed (Eds) (2012). Supramolecular Chemistry: from Molecules to Nanomaterials. Wiley Blackwell.
J.W.Steed, D.R.Turner, K.J.Wallace (2007). Core Concepts in Supramolecular Chemistry and Nanochemistry. Wiley Blackwell.
Paul.D.Beer, Philip. A. Gale, David.K.Smith (1999). Supramolecular Chemistry (Oxford Chemistry Primers). Oxford University Press.
Ed. Leonard R.MacGillivray (2010). Metal-Organic Frameworks: Design and Application. Wiley Blackwell.
F.Diederich, P.J.Stang, R.T.Tykwinski (2008). Modern Supramolecular Chemistry. Wiley Blackwell.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Continuous assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External