Module Information

Module Identifier
PH33120
Module Title
Semiconductors, Materials and Nanotechnology
Academic Year
2026/2027
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 2
Pre-Requisite

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Assignment sheets  30%
Semester Exam 3 Hours   Examination  70%
Supplementary Assessment Assignment sheets  30%
Supplementary Exam 3 Hours   Examination  70%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the physics of semiconductors, soft matter and nanomaterials

Critically review the complete route from the initial materials to the production of electronic and optoelectronic devices

Demonstrate familiarity with the physics and experimental materials science of Soft Matter systems

Critically analyse the technical issues involved in the production of practical devices

Describe and critically evaluate the distinctive properties of nanoscale materials and nanoparticles

Brief description

This module builds on the fundamental condensed matter physics developed in PH32410 and exposes students to some advanced topics and current research. the main topics are semiconductors, soft matter and nanomaterials. Technological applications of functional materials are introduced alongside the physics supporting them.

Content

1. Crystalline semiconductors
a. Group IV
b. Compound semiconductors
2. Electronic and Optoelectronic Devices
3. Thin films
4. Device fabrication and design
a. Silicon MOS & Integrated circuits
b. Lithography and etching
5. Device characterisation
6. Soft matter
a. Rheology
b. Polymers
c. Organic semiconductors
d. Biomaterials
7. Characterisation of organic materials
8. Nanomaterials
a. Low dimensionality and quantum confinement
b. Quantum wells and 2D materials
c. Nanoparticles

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Subject Specific Skills Subject specific skills

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6