ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY FOR CULTURAL GOODS AND LABORATORY - MOD. 1

Academic year
2026/2027 Syllabus of previous years
Official course title
CHIMICA ANALITICA PER I BENI CULTURALI E LABORATORIO - MOD. 1
Course code
CT0597 (AF:752603 AR:320135)
Teaching language
Italian
Modality
On campus classes
ECTS credits
6 out of 12 of ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY FOR CULTURAL GOODS AND LABORATORY
Degree level
Bachelor's Degree Programme
Academic Discipline
CHEM-01/A
Period
1st Semester
Course year
2
Where
VENEZIA
Moodle
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This teaching course is part of the training activities characterizing the degree course in Science and Technologies for Cultural Heritage, aimed at providing students with knowledge and understanding of the main methods and techniques of scientific investigation for the study and characterization of materials employed in the cultural heritage field, using the methods of treatment of experimental data and the current technical-scientific language in an appropriate manner.

The teaching "Analytical Chemistry for Cultural Heritage and Laboratory" is divided into two modules (defined as Module 1 and Module 2), both with theoretical lessons and laboratory exercises. The educational objectives of the course include:
1. To know and understand the general principles on which the classical and instrumental analytical methods most commonly used in the analysis, characterization and diagnostics of materials and objects in the field of cultural heritage are based.
2. To develop skills and competences to identify and apply the most common classical and instrumental analytical techniques to the investigation and characterization of artistic artifacts, as well as to interpret the collected experimental data.
3. To provide knowledge on the functioning of the instrumentation and on the modality of reading the responses obtained from the different types of instruments and their correlation with the theoretical aspects dealt with.
4. To develop critical sense that allows students to evaluate the potentials, advantages and limitations of the various analytical techniques studied.
5. To develop skills in the evaluation and reliability of an analytical data.

Specific educational goals of the Module 1 of the course are:
1. To provide the knowledge of theoretical principles of the main classical quantitative analytical techniques commonly used for the study and diagnostics of materials in the field of cultural heritage.
2. To develop and consolidate the ability to solve problems of: stoichiometric calculus, concentrations and dilutions, equilibria in solution, applied to a given analytical problem.
3. To introduce students to the practical application of the quantitative analytical methodologies studied from a theoretical point of view
4. To develop manual skills and familiarity in experimental laboratory work, both individually and in small work groups;
5. To develop skills in data processing and critical evaluation of the experimental results and of the potential of the techniques used, including the drafting of short written reports on the proposed experimental laboratory work.


The achievement of these objectives allows students to develop skills and competences to solve simple analytical-diagnostic questions and apply the most common classical and instrumental analytical techniques to the investigation and characterization of artistic artefacts, as well as to interpret the collected experimental data.
Expected learning outcomes for Module 1:

1.Knowledge and understanding
A) To Know the fundamental principles of volumetric, potentiometric and conductimetric analytical methods, and to understand the chemical reactions and the laws they are based on.
B) To Know and understand the function and correct use of the volumetric and mass measurement equipments, as well as the elements that make up the instrumental equipment used to carry out the volumetric and electrochemical experiences.
C) To know and understand the types of experimental error and the figures of merit in analytical chemistry, the concept of calibration and the methods of quantification in instrumental analysis, the main procedures for the acquisition and processing of experimental data.
D) To know and respect the basic rules of behavior in the chemical laboratory as well as the safety standards and risk prevention in the laboratory

2. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
A) Knowing how to use laws and concepts learned in the theoretical course, to appropriately apply the classical analytical techniques studied in solving an analytical problem.
B) Knowing how to collect experimental analytical data (alone and/or in group) and apply the theory of error and statistical analysis for their correct treatment and evaluation.
C) Ability to elaborate and evaluate the final experimental results in a consistent way, made explicit by writing a scientific report.
D) Ability to work experimentally in an autonomous way, respecting all the safety standards and risk prevention in the chemical laboratory.

3. Ability to judge
Compatibly with the degree of in-depth study of the subject reached during the teaching:
A) To compare the effectiveness of the various analytical techniques studied, choosing the most appropriate to apply to a specific diagnostic problem.
B) To know how to critically assess the consistency of the experimental results obtained.
C) Being able to recognize any errors through a critical analysis of the applied method.
D) Being able to evaluate the correct functioning of the used volumetric equipment and instrumentation.
E) To develop critical capacity on the danger of some classes of chemical compounds for human health and the environment.

4. Communication skills
A) Communicate the knowledge learned and the result of their application using an appropriate language, both in oral and written examination.
B) Interact with the teammates and tutor in a constructive and respectful way, developing the ability to work in a team and taking responsibility for own role in the team.

5. Learning skills
- Being able to take notes, sharing them in a collaborative way








Prerequisites
To achieve the learning objectives of: GENERAL AND INORGANIC CHEMISTRY AND LABORATORY - mod 1 and 2, MATHEMATICAL INSTITUTIONS WITH EXERCISES, PHYSICS.
It is recommended (but not compulsory) to have passed the exams of these teachings.
In relation to the training objectives and the expected learning outcomes, the teaching "Analytical Chemistry for Cultural Heritage and Laboratory - Module 1" is divided into two parts: Theory and Laboratory

FIRST PART - THEORY
1. General introduction to the course, description of the program, methods of examination, bibliography.
2. Introduction to analytical chemistry and its role in the field of cultural heritage; Classification of methods of analysis; Steps of a typical quantitative analysis. Calibration. References to some basic concepts: unit of measurement; calculation of concentrations.
3. Evaluation of experimental data: errors in analytical chemistry; accuracy and precision; application of statistics to data processing and evaluation; examples of calculation. Quantification methods in instrumental analysis. Sensitivity, limit of detection and quantification.
4. Recalls of chemistry of aqueous solutions: the chemical composition of aqueous solutions, acids and bases. The balanced chemical equation. Solving balancing problems.
5. Volumetric methods of analysis: general aspects of volumetric titrations, standard solutions, indicators, determination of end point, volumetric calculations. Titration curves.
6. Neutralization titrations: acid-base titrations, acid/base indicators, titration errors. Titration curves: strong acid- strong base; weak acid-strong base; weak base-strong acid, polyfunctional acids and bases. Applications: carbonate titration.
7. Titration with complex formation: complex formation reactions; titrations with EDTA. Applications: determination of Ca2 + and Mg2+ ions.
8. Precipitation titrations: titration curves. Argentometric titrations; revelation of the final point. Applications: determination of Cl- ions.
9. Introduction to electrochemical methods: electrochemical cells, electrode potentials, types of electrodes.
10. Potentiometry and Conductivity: Potentiometry: fundamental principles, instrumentation and applications; pH measurement; potentiometric titrations. Conductivity: fundamental principles, instrumentation and applications; conductivity measurement; conductometric titrations.

SECOND PART - LABORATORY
- VOLUMETRIC ANALYSIS (classical quantitative analysis)
1. Use of technical and analytical balances. Use and calibration of the volumetric glassware.
2. Use of pHmeter and conductimeter; applications to pH and conductivity measurements in natural waters. Determination of pH of paper surfaces.
3. Base-acid titrations: weak acid - strong base with indicator; conductivity titration: determination of the concentration of a strong acid; pHmetrical titration: determination of the carbonate ion
4. Complexometric titrations: Volumetric determination of Ca2+ + Mg2+ with EDTA. Determination of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in a dolomite sample.
5. Precipitation titrations: Volumetric determination of chlorides: Fajans method. Determination of the chloride released by a brick in contact with an aqueous phase.



- Harris D.C., Chimica Analitica Quantitativa, III ed., Zanichelli, Bologna, 2017.
- Skoog D.A., West D.M., Holler F.J., Crough S.R., Fondamenti di Chimica Analitica, EdiSES, Napoli, III ed. (2015), op. II Ed.(2005).
- Skoog D.A., West D.M., Holler F.J., Fondamenti di Chimica Analitica, EdiSES, Napoli, 1998.
- Hage & Carr, Chimica Analitica e Analisi Quantitativa, Piccin, 2012

- Lecture slides projected during the classroom lessons and uploaded to the moodle platform

For the laboratory part, the teacher will provide a laboratory manual (named dispensa) with information necessary for the realization of each experience and of the reports.

Integrative texts
- Cozzi, Prearo, Ruaro , Analisi Chimica Strumentale, III ed., Zanichelli , Bologna, 2020.
- Campanella L., Casoli A., Colombini M.P., Marini Bettolo R., Matteini M. et al., Chimica per l'Arte, Zanichelli, Bologna, 2007
- Skoog D.A., Holler F.J., Crouch S.R., Chimica Analitica Strumentale, EdiSES, Napoli, 2009.
The evaluation of the learning objectives related to the course of Analytical Chemistry for Cultural Heritage and Laboratory, module 1 and 2 will be carried out simultaneously, and will consist of a written and oral exam, along with the evaluation of laboratory reports and virtual project.
Therefore, the finale evaluation can be summarized as follows:

(a) Written exam. It consists of a series of questions and exercises related to both the theorical part and the experiences performed in the laboratory. The written exam is structured with the aim of evaluating the understanding of the analytical methodologies and techniques and their applications. The evaluation of the written exam weights 40% of the final vote.
b) The evaluation of the laboratory activity (laboratory reports) weights 10%. Concerning the latter ones, the realization of at least 80% of the programmed laboratory activities is required. Appropriate additional laboratory sessions are planned to allow for possible recoveries.
(c) An oral examination for the evaluation of the objectives concerning the theoretical part, which consists of a series of open questions related to the theoretical aspects and the different analytical techniques dealt with in the course. The proposed questions will be of different levels: understanding, application, analysis, and critical evaluation. The evaluation of the oral exam weights 40% of the final vote.
(d) The presentation of the virtual project must be considered as part of the exam with a weight of 10%.

The overall assessment of the Analytical Chemistry for Cultural Heritage and Laboratory – Module 1+2 is calculated as 0.4a+0.1b+0.4c+0.1d.

written

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

The written and oral exams, with an average duration of 2.5 h (written) and about 30 minutes (oral), respectively, will cover two or three topics discussed during the course. It will assess argumentative skills and technical-scientific knowledge of the requested subjects of the exam, including a topic of choice.
The grading scale is determined by:
- Knowledge of the required topics (up to 10 points);
- Detailed and precise knowledge of the topics covered (up to 5 points);
- Ability to delve deeper into the topic (up to 5 points);
- Confidence in presentation (up to 5 points);
- Ability to structure the discussion independently (up to 5 points).

The lessons are organised as follows:

- theoretical part: lectures in classroom (2 academic hours each), with the help of slides which are given time to time on the Moodle platform of the course .

- experimental part: students work individually or in groups of two in the analytical chemistry teaching laboratory to complete the scheduled experimental activities. At the end of the practical part, they will submit laboratory reports detailing the experimental data and discussing the results obtained.

All the teaching materials provided will be available for download on the Moodle platform: presentations shown in the classroom during lessons, laboratory handouts, templates for preparing reports, and in-depth material.
- Attendance to the laboratory course is mandatory .
- The teacher is available to meet students who request it, for further information on the topics of the course, by simple email contact: giulia.moro@unive.it

Accessibility, Disability and Inclusion

Accommodation and support services for students with disabilities and students with specific learning impairments:
Ca’ Foscari abides by Italian Law (Law 17/1999; Law 170/2010) regarding supportservices and accommodation available to students with disabilities. This includes students with mobility, visual, hearing and other disabilities (Law 17/1999), and specific learning impairments (Law 170/2010). In the case of disability or impairment that requires accommodations (i.e., alternate testing, readers, note takers or interpreters) please contact the Disability and Accessibility Offices in Student Services: disabilita@unive.it.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Human capital, health, education" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development

Definitive programme.
Last update of the programme: 18/07/2026