CHEN40440 Chem Proc Sust & Ren Energy

Academic Year 2022/2023

From an energy conversion point of view, natural photosynthesis and the artificial mimicking of photosynthesis will be taught. The course will cover thermodynamic principles of energy conversion, technical processes involving biomass, biogas and liquid bio-fuels, natural gas usage, various types of solar energy conversion methods and principles, low carbon fuels, hydrogen economy, waste recycling to energy, electrolysis and photoelectrolysis of water, and fuel cells. The students will familiarise with different types of solar cells and fuel cells. Specific topics covered will include: Production of hydrogen; CO2 chemistry: Environmental issues and CO2 neutral fuels; Energetic of photosynthesis; Thermodynamics of Energy conversion processes; Solar cells; Low carbon fuels; Bio-fuels; Chemistry of natural gas; Various types of solar energy conversion methods and principles; Hydrogen economy; Electrolysis and photoelectrolysis of water; energy usage & efficient methods and Fuel cells. Principles of sustainable use of energy will be taught in relation to all types of renewables.

Show/hide contentOpenClose All

Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

This course will create a base for careers in chemistry, engineering, materials, energy planning, teaching, research, economics, sociology, and society management and development. The students will glean from each topic in the course relationships to social and economic needs of modern and developing societies.

Embedded Learning Outcomes:
Define basic theory of chemical energy conversion
Differentiate methods, materials and technology
Explore energy conversion devices and fabrication methods
Predict challenges and confronting issues
Search societal aspects
Advise economical aspects
Argue on sustainable management requirements
Coordinate technological discussions on energy production and use
Optimize innovative ideas
Defend sustainability principles
Decide on different views
Critique chemical, physical and engineering state-of-the-art
Promote green chemistry
Organize debates
Illustrate benefits
Exploit science and technology

General Transferable Skills (Outcomes):
Give feedback (critique) in an appropriate fashion.
Communicate effectively with professionals from other disciplines.
Take responsibility for environmental impacts of her/ his actions and decisions.
Take feedback (critique) and respond in an appropriate manner.
Access and evaluate appropriate sources of information.
Make an oral presentation.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

31

Seminar (or Webinar)

1

Specified Learning Activities

12

Autonomous Student Learning

80

Total

124

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
- Lectures (Fundamental science to state of the art application and research)
- Interactive discussions (frequent within the lecture class; all students are expected to participate)
- Seminars on multi-disciplinary and complex topics relevant to the topic of renewable and sustainable energy and materials (group activity) 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Requirements:

3 Years of study in any branches of physical and chemical sciences or engineering at Bachelor's level


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Essay: End of term: timely submission of an essay written on a chosen topic from a list. Open to literature sources and lectures.
The class will have interactive discussions and regular attendance helps.
Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

50

Seminar: Given topics related to renewable energy and sustainability in general Varies over the Trimester n/a Graded No

50


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

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Seminar marks will be informed to the group after all class seminars are completed.