Chemistry at UM

Science-Led Safety Standards in Malta 🔬⚖️

The Department of Chemistry is highlighting recent data released by ARUC and the University of Malta, which underscores the significant role of regulation in consumer safety.

A comparative analysis of 24 cannabis samples showed a stark contrast in quality control: while pesticide residues were found in samples from illicit sources, zero pesticides were detected in samples from licensed CHRAs.

This study provides clear evidence of how rigorous testing and oversight protect public health. By sharing these findings, our Department continues to support evidence-based research as a cornerstone of effective harm reduction and regulatory policy.

Chemistry at UM wishes to wish all its a Merry festive season and a Happy New Year.

Here is a fascinating film exploring the "Chemistry of Christmas" from the Royal Institution.

In this festive lecture, Katherine Haxton breaks down the science behind our favorite holiday traditions, including:

- The Chemistry of Candles: A look at how hydrocarbons burn and why flames have different colored zones.

- Christmas Sparkle: The history of silver tinsel and how glass baubles are silvered using chemical reactions.

- Festive Explosives: Why silver fulminate is the secret ingredient that puts the "crack" in Christmas crackers.

- Potato-Powered Lights: A demonstration of lighting fairy lights using potatoes and a secret ingredient—cranberry sauce!.

Extreme Cold: Watching what happens when Christmas dinner staples like Brussels sprouts and Yorkshire puddings meet liquid nitrogen.

Watch the full video:

Chemistry of Christmas – with Katherine Haxton We're celebrating Christmas the only way we know how - with Chemistry!Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYeF244yNGuFe...

The Department of Chemistry wishes to announce to its that Professor Alfred J. Vella, Rector of the University of Malta and former Head of this Department, has today been appointed a Member of the National Order of Merit (MOM).

This honour, bestowed on Republic Day 2025, recognizes his distinguished service to the country, particularly in the fields of environmental chemistry and forensic science, as well as his leadership in higher education.

We are especially proud to note that Prof. Vella is the first chemist to receive this high state honour, marking a significant milestone for the chemical sciences in Malta.

On behalf of all staff, students, and alumni, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Vella on this well-deserved recognition. 🇲🇹🧪🎓

Happy 61st Birthday Professor Emmanuel Sinagra

Call for Student Representatives – Faculty Board & Boards of Studies (Chemistry)

We’re inviting nominations from Chemistry students to serve on:

Faculty Board (faculty-level decisions)
Boards of Studies for Chemistry programmes (curriculum, assessment, quality)

Why serve? Influence policy, improve courses, build leadership skills.
Eligibility: Registered students in Science programmes for Faculty Board and Chemistry programmes for boards of studies.
Commitment: Maximum 6 meetings in a year.
For Faculty Board, nominate yourself here:https://www.um.edu.mt/media/um/docs/studentportal/studentrepresentatives/2526/nominationssent/FacultyofScience.pdf
For a Board of Study, nominate yourself here:https://www.um.edu.mt/media/um/docs/faculties/science/chemistry/NominationForm-BoSChemistry.pdf
Deadline: 14/11/2025

For further information please send an email to [email protected].

The weird ways the elements got their names Where do our words for the chemical elements come from? The answers are certain to surprise you. In this linguistic tour of the periodic table, discover:🤷 W...

Latest publication related to the contribution of outdoor fine particles to indoor exposure. Paper by Mr Renato Camilleri from Prof. Noel Aquilina's group, working in atmospheric chemistry and exposure. The paper can be read here:

Redirecting

Benjamin Tabone Adami from the Department of Chemistry, testing and deploying real-time, low cost, PM2.5 and PM10 sensor (SDS 011) at the UM Campus in Valletta and the busy road, Triq in-Naxxar in San Ġwann. This high resolution data will be collected together with traffic information and Black Carbon concentrations, during his MSc project.

Ongoing airborne Black Carbon sampling and traffic counting campaign across Malta and Gozo by Benjamin Tabone Adami for his MSc in Chemistry. Half way through in street canyon measurements of this pollutant of emerging concern.

Already sampled in Marsaxlokk, St.Julians, Msida, St. Paul’s Bay, Sliema, Mġarr, Dingli and Fgura. Currently sampling at the Floriana Local Council and over the Grand Harbour. Next stops in Valletta, San Ġwann, Għarb and Rabat in Gozo. A wholehearted thank you goes also to our drivers and helpers Mr Adrian Farrugia and Mr John Camilleri.