BSEN40620 Biorefinery Process & Tech O/L

Academic Year 2023/2024

This module will introduce and critically assess biorefinery processes and technologies. The module will identify and explain the concepts of the varying conversion pathways for different biomass feedstocks to bioproducts. The module will examine the engineering concepts behind the conversion processes to produce bio-based end-product including; pretreatment, bioprocessing and separation biofuels and bioenergy, biopolymers etc. In addition, the module will consider innovation and market development issues and challenges to bioeconomy implementation, integrating classroom learning into the development of a business plan for the circular bioeconomy. A number of national and international biorefinery case studies will be presented and examined. The focus of the module is on the application of engineering science to develop integrated biorefinery systems with a focus on sustainability.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

(1) Define and evaluate a biorefinery in terms of its process design with respect to energy and feedstock efficiencies and its role in the sustainable bioeconomy,
(2) Identify and describe key conversion methods for production of biobased products and determine their challenges and opportunities,
(3) Describe the impact of innovation and entrepreneurship in supporting the development of the bioeconomy,
(4) Calculate design parameters and efficiencies of key processes in biorefining towards production of biobased products.
(5) Critically analyse relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Indicative Module Content:

Introduction to biorefining and sustainability aspects - Students will be introduced to bio-refining, exploring the principles and concepts of bio-prospecting and discovery, bio-processing and conversion pathways
Biomass conversion processes for different biomass feed-stocks to bio-products - Students will examine the engineering concepts behind the conversion processes to produce bio-based end-products including; pre-treatment, bio processing and separation.
Novel biorefinery processes and deployment for higher value products - National and international biorefinery case studies will be presented and examined such as AgriChemWhey, SpiralG, First2run to exploring the technology development journey, technology scale up and industrial deployment.
Biorefinery Opportunity Scoping - Students will develop the skills to develop a business plan for specific feed stock opportunities in a regional or industry specific context.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

18
Tutorial

6
Specified Learning Activities

48
Autonomous Student Learning

26
Total

98
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
1. Lectures to deliver theory: Students will have access to this content asynchronously to allow for fully flexible engagement and learning.
2. Synchronous Tutorial Sessions: students will engage in tutorial sessions delivered in webinar style to facilitate real time interaction. Students will be challenges and supported to explore and engage on course content and directed learning presented asynchronously taking into consideration technical, economic, environmental, social and policy implications in the context of their own career and the work of others. These sessions will also facilitate the participation of national and international experts to enrich the debate sharing best practice and experiences.
3. Asynchronous discussion forums to connect students: a task will be set which students will be required to engage with to explore, challenge, critically evaluate and exchange ideas.
4. Assignments: to develop critical awareness, analysis, synthesis and communication skills.
5. Directed Study: Learners will be directed to access and work through a program of content which will be delivered asynchronously. This approach will enable the students to access and work through a program of content at a time of their choosing within the weekly time frame and within the context of the supported learning environment. The directed learning will draw from a wider variety on learning resources and materials, such as reading (academic and journalistic), podcasts and videos.
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Group Project: Group Project (Business plan on a bioeconomy project) Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

40
Examination: End of trimester exam 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

60

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Deirdre Blake Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Tamíris Da Costa Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Ronald Halim Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Ajay Iyer Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Joseph Sweeney Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 
Spring
      
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Thurs 13:00 - 13:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Tues 10:00 - 10:50
Spring