IRMGR41518 Experimental Methods (Spring 2025)

The students will learn how to use two different experimental research techniques, and how to critically analyze and interpret the data obtained with these techniques. The experimental techniques should be relevant for the student's planned Master Thesis. The course is module-based, where each module teaches one experimental technique. The student should select two relevant modules for the course.

The course is research based, and each student should therefore conduct measurements that results in new knowledge of the measured systems. The students should preferably conduct measurements on samples that are relevant for their planned master project, e.g., a small pre-study. The project reports should include a discussion regarding analysis and interpretation of the data (including relevant references to scientific research literature), and a discussion of possible errors and artefacts of both the measurements and interpretations.

Examples of available modules:

• Rheology - Viscoelastic properties of liquids and gels
• Dynamic light scattering and electrophoretic mobility - Determining hydrodynamic radius and zeta potentials
• Isothermal calorimetry - Heat flow rate of a sample due to chemical or physical changes in the sample
• Diffusive wave spectroscopy - Microrheology and size determination of turdid samples
• Electrospinning - Fabricating nanofibers and nanoparticles by electrospinning
• Mechanical testing of materials - Compressive strength, elasticity modulus, toughness, stress-strain curves
• Guarded hot plate method: thermal conductivity
• Lab scale setup for Thermal transmittance (U-Value) in buildings

Knowledge:

The student

• has advanced knowledge of two experimental methods within energy technology
• can analyze experimental limitations and possible artefacts.

Skills:

The student

• can utilize two experimental methods for research and development in an independent manner
• can critically analyze data obtained by two experimental research methods.

General competence:

The student can solve problems related to experimental work.

• At least 85% attendance for lectures/lab classes
• Lab safety course.
• Lab introduction course including passed test of laboratory skills.
• Laboratory assignments according to the two chosen modules.

This exam concists of two parts:

Part 1: Project report from chosen module number 1. 50% of the evaluation

Part 2: Project report from chosen module number 2. 50% of the evaluation

Both partial exams must me graded as passed to get a final grade in the subject.

Grades from A to F, where A is the best grade, E is the lowest passed grade, and F is failed.