Learning objectives
Aim of the course is to illustrate the fundamental principles required for the understanding and the description of the chemical mechanisms determining the impact of some classes of inorganic pollutants of essentially anthropic origin on the environment.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of general and organic chemistry is required
Course unit content
Heavy metals: extraction methods, general properties and compounds of cadmium,
lead, arsenic, antimony, mercury, chromium. Chemistry of the main organometallic
compounds. Stability of metal complexes and metal ions in solution.
Corrosion and passivation of metals of technological interest. Corrosion protection
methods.
Introduction to nuclear chemistry. Civil and military applications of atomic
energy. Life cycle of nuclear fuel. Radioactive wastes. Problems related to the
recover, treatment and disposal of nuclear waste. Hints of sanitary physics.
Chemistry of the atmosphere: photochemistry of oxygen, ozone. Ozone hole. Catalysts
of ozone decomposition. Carbon dioxide and green house effect. Photochemistry of
nitrogen oxides. Sulphur oxides. Acid rain. Industrial synthesis of nitric and
sulphuric acids.
Full programme
- - -
Bibliography
Baird C. - Chimica Ambientale, Zanichelli
Manaham S. E. - Chimica dell¿Ambiente, Piccin
Schwedt G. - The Essential Guide to Environmental Chemistry, Wiley
Teaching methods
Traditional lessons with exercises
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral exam
Other information
- - -
