Title:
Curricular, Biochemical and Environmental Applications of Nanotechnology
Curricular, Biochemical and Environmental Applications of Nanotechnology
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Author(s)
Lynch, Will
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Abstract
Chemistry occupies a unique place in the university curriculum and is required by a wide
variety of other disciplines because of its general utility. Unfortunately, the
laboratory portion of the course does not always reflect the diversity and excitement of
new research in and interesting applications of chemistry since the laboratory experience
is designed to help the student master fundamental concepts. At Armstrong Atlantic State
University (AASU) we are attacking this problem with the implementation of two series of
nanotechnology based “vertical threads” throughout our chemistry curriculum. The vertical
threads begin in the freshman year and provide continuity throughout the rest of the
curriculum. Experiments direct the student’s attention towards modern applications of
chemical technology while providing chemical fundamentals expected in traditional
laboratory exercises. By seeing these recurring threads at ever increasing levels of
complexity, students build upon knowledge gained about nanotechnology with each additional
laboratory course.
We have concentrated our efforts in two areas: magnetite nanoparticles and chalcogenide
nanoparticles. Magnetite nanoparticles are prepared by freshmen students while more
advanced students modify these nanoparticles for real-world applications.
Chalcogenide nanoparticles are synthesized by junior and senior level students and their
spectroscopic properties are studied. Senior and undergraduate research students are
involved in green synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles as well as the use of ZnS,
CdS and ceria nanoparticles for photocatalysis applications. The upper division students
learn numerous instrumental techniques within the context of nanotechnology. All students
are presented with pre-laboratory and background materials that address the needs for new
materials, new techniques for biomedical analysis and drug delivery, as well as the
environmental impacts of nanotechnology.
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Date Issued
2009-02-09
Extent
48:29 minutes
Resource Type
Moving Image
Resource Subtype
Lecture