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CHE-20091 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2025/26 Last Updated: 04 December 2025

CHE-20091 - Structure and Function in Materials Chemistry
Coordinator: Chris Hawes Tel: +44 1782 7 32820
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

In this module you will learn about the chemistry and structure of solids and how solid-state processes can be manipulated to store, convert and deliver energy in modern batteries and fuel cells. You will gain hands-on experience processing and interpreting X-ray diffraction data in structured workshops, and apply your understanding of solid-state chemistry to research, produce and present a poster detailing the chemical principles and sustainability implications of an aspect of battery or fuel cell chemistry. 

Aims
This module introduces and develops the core principles of solid-state chemistry, and explores how the structure of a solid material impacts its function, with a focus on materials relevant to batteries and energy applications. Students will explore the principles of solid-state structure and its analysis using X-ray diffraction, and apply this knowledge to the operation of modern batteries, electrolysers and fuel cells

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe, interpret and predict the principles and behaviours of inorganic solids in the context of the underpinning chemical and physical theories: 1,2
Discuss, apply and evaluate theoretical models of solid-state structure through analysis of x-ray diffraction data: 2
Recognise, interpret and apply fundamental principles of electrochemistry in the context of the inorganic materials found in modern energy technologies such batteries, electrolysers and fuel cells: 1
Evaluate sustainability, environmental and ethical considerations associated with the manufacture of solid-state inorganic materials: 1
Prepare and present scientific information appropriate for specialist audiences in written, visual and oral formats, incorporating professional standards of scientific presentation.: 1,2
Make use of scientific databases to locate, extract and interpret data from primary literature sources, and critically reflect on the validity and reliability of these sources: 1,2

Study hours

Active Learning Hours:
In-person interactive lectures and seminars: 20 hours
Practical data analysis and assessment workshops: 12 hours
Poster presentation and discussion sessions: 4 hours
Independent Study hours: 114

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Poster weighted 50%
Energy Materials Poster and Interview
Students will research and prepare a poster which addresses a specific question related to the chemistry underpinning modern energy technologies. The poster will be accompanied by a written narrative reflecting on the reliability of the scientific sources used, and expanding on a technical detail from the chosen technology in response to a written prompt. Students will attend a poster interview (20 minutes per student) as part of a class poster session to answer technical questions on the topic and contextual discussions of the technology

2: Report weighted 50%
X-Ray Diffraction Report
A report (equivalent to 2000 words) addressing a specific assigned problem relating to solid-state chemistry. The report will discuss the background theory and application of X-ray diffraction methods in structural chemistry, and use quantitative calculations of X-ray diffraction data to identify an unknown material.

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 04 December 2025