A solid knowledge of the main metrology techniques used for measurement of the main physical quantities, including instrumentation and calibration;
A solid knowledge of quality control policies, including those required for laboratory and analytical methods certification;
Acquiring good laboratory working methods fulfilling the rules of quality control;
Generic learning outcomes:
Training capacities for organisation of data and documentation including bibliographic search
Development of autonomy in laboratory work, following good quality practices
Training of soft skills related to presentation of data in reports and scientific communication
1- Quality. Quality policies. Documentation, standards, calibration, certification, traceability.
2- Quality systems.
3- Concepts of metrology
4- Measurements and uncertainties. Statistical tools.
5- Advanced topics of metrology (involving the following techniques and instrumentation: mass spectroscopy, XRF, EDS, magnetometry, interferometry, etc.
Basic knowledge of quality control and statistics
Generic skills to reach
. Competence in analysis and synthesis; . Competence to solve problems; . Critical thinking; . Competence in autonomous learning; . Research skills; . Competence in oral and written communication; . Computer Skills for the scope of the study; . Initiative and entrepreneurial spirit; . Quality concerns; . Competence in applying theoretical knowledge in practice; (by decreasing order of importance)
Teaching hours per semester
total of teaching hours
Sseminar or study visit
Laboratory or field work
Bibliography of reference
The Metrology Handbook, J.L. Bucher, 2012, ASQ press, ISBN: 0873898389
The Physics of Metrology: All about Instruments: From Trundle Wheels to Atomic Clock, A. Hebra, Springer, 2010, ISBN: 3211783806
The recommended teaching methods give a strong emphasis on the laboratory field work, and to tutorials in a research analytical/quality control laboratory. Some tutorial and practical work will be performed at the TAIL-UC (Trace Analysis and Imaging Laboratory), located in the Physics Department of the University of Coimbra.