OVERVIEW

The course provides fundamentals of chemical reaction engineering, applied to biofuels production.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course provides the knowledge related to the processes of  biofuels production. Students will be able to choose the most appropriate methodologies and technologies to basic design chemical reactors and to analyse processes for the production of biofuels from biomass and wastes. Students will be able to define operating conditions for continuous and batch chemical reactors and to evaluate the possible start-up and operation problems of the chosen chemical reactors.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures (with the help of slides provided by the teacher), numerical exercises and laboratory

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The principal processes for biofuels production are analysed in terms of kinetics route. Chemical and physical unit operations and principal reactors schemes (DSTR, CSTR, PFR, bubble column, airlift) are presented for both homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions. Comparison of chemical reactors is made in terms of conversion, yields and selectivity, operating conditions, stability of process parameters, controllability, safety and energy consumption. Mathematical models of classical reactors are discussed. Reactors used for anaerobic digestion, oil-transesterification, fermentation and microalgae production are particularly analysed. A laboratory activity on some equipment at pilot/lab scale is offered on students request.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Course handouts and slides supplied by the teacher (full bibliography is also contained)

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

OMBRETTA PALADINO (President)

PATRIZIA PEREGO

LESSONS

Class schedule

REACTION ENGINEERING OF BIOFUELS

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Written test (multiple choice questions), written exercise (carried out in group, on laboratory activities) and oral examination (discussion of the written exercise).

Exam schedule