Integrated Laboratory II

The UC is a complementary subject of the UC Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (1st year/2nd semester) and Materials Sciences in Bioengineering (1st year/2nd semester). As such, it is assumed that students attend the two mentioned UCs.

The course consists of laboratory classes and/or work discussion sessions, carried out in groups of two students. The teaching approach follows a structured and uniform sequence across all groups, as outlined below:

1. Preparation and introduction to the experiment: One of the groups starts the session with a brief presentation of the experiment to be performed, allowing for clarification of any doubts that may have arisen from the prior reading of the protocol (which is done before the class).

2. Experimental planning: Calculation of necessary parameters, such as mass, concentration, or volume determination.

3. Experimental execution: During the experiment, students are challenged with relevant questions to assess their preparation and enhance their understanding of the underlying concepts.

4. Data recording and organization: Students systematically organize their experimental records.

5. Cleaning and workspace organization: Washing of used materials and tidying up the workstation.

6. Data analysis and report writing: Processing experimental data and starting the report writing process.

For each experiment, an oral discussion is conducted in groups, focusing on theoretical concepts and the laboratory results obtained. Additionally, the written report is analyzed and discussed.

The general objective of the UC is for students to be able to apply, in a laboratory context, the knowledge learned in the Materials Science UC in Bioengineering and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology:

1. Work in a group responsibly and safely, respecting safety protocols and the risks involved in different laboratory practices.

2. Program experiences based on objectives to be achieved within a given time.

3. Autonomously carry out simple laboratory procedures such as preparation of solutions, titrations.

4. Operate simple laboratory-scale mixture separation equipment for the identification, separation and quantification of organic compounds.

5. Autonomously carry out laboratory procedures in the area of ​​materials science, such as preparation, modification, manipulation, characterization and functionalization of polymeric materials.

6. Explain the operation of tensile testing equipment.

7. Analyze, treat and criticize experimental results obtained in laboratory tests.

8. Prepare written reports and discuss them orally.

The experimental work to be carried out integrate knowledge of the Materials Science in Bioengineering (Group I) and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology courses (Group II).

Group I

1. Evaluation of mechanical properties of metallic materials by tensile testing.

2. Evaluation of mechanical properties of polymeric and composite materials by tensile testing.

3. Synthesis of a polymer. Modification of a natural polymer.

4. Synthesis and characterization of a hydrogel.

Group II

1. Preparation of reagents and working solutions.

2. Study of properties of buffer solutions and their importance in Bioengineering.

3. Study of the acid-base properties of amino acids.

4. Carbohydrates and Lipids characterization.

NAO