Novel Experimental Modules to Introduce Students to Nanoparticle Characterization in a Chemical Engineering Course

The increasing industrial and biomedical applications of nanomaterials have enhanced the need to educate a well-trained nanotechnology workforce. This need has led to efforts to introduce hands-on, nanotechnology-based, experimental modules into high school or college-level courses in science or engineering. However, the majority of such efforts have focused on nanoparticle synthesis techniques, and an equally important aspect of working with nanomaterials, i.e. nanoparticle characterization, has received less attention. Herein, we report a series of nanoparticle characterization experiments, as part of a newly developed "Nano and Biointerfaces" course, to familiarize upper undergraduate students as well as graduate students in chemical engineering with nanoparticle characterization techniques. An inquiry-based approach was used in that the composition and properties of nanoparticles were not revealed to the students beforehand and students were asked to perform experiments to characterize nanoparticle composition, size, morphology, and surface area. The results of these experiments were compared with certificates of analysis for particles, provided by the vendor, and the differences in measured properties were discussed. Assessment was performed through evaluation of laboratory memos and presentations, a question in the end of semester final exam, and a student survey. The modular nature of these experiments allows for them to be implemented, with modifications as needed, in other higher education institutions, or in high schools, to familiarize students with nanoparticle characterization.