OVERVIEW

Process systems engineering deals with the design, operation, optimization and control of all kinds of chemical, physical, and biological processes through the use of systematic computer-aided approaches. Its major challenges are the development of concepts, methodologies and models for the prediction of performance and for decision-making for an engineered system.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

To introduce modern techniques and computed aided tools for the design, simulation and optimization of process systems including sustainability.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this study, through lessons attendance and training activities such as oral lessons and exercises, the student should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the key steps in carrying out a process design
• Apply competently the basic principles of process design
• Design and assess the performance and the sustainability of a process plant using simulation or optimization tools
• Work effectively as a member of a process design team developing making judgements, learning and communication skills illustrating an industrial case study
• Develop a critical awareness of the broader multidisciplinary context of engineering
• Develop the ability to identify, formulate and solve problems in new and emerging areas of their specialization
• Develop the ability to design solutions to unfamiliar problems, which may involve other disciplines, and to operate in the presence of complex situations, technical uncertainties and incomplete information
• Acquire awareness of the social, health and safety, and legal aspects and responsibilities of engineering practice, and the impact of engineering solutions in the social and environmental context.

PREREQUISITES

The course has no specific prerequisites. However, for a successful learning, basic knowledge on mathematics, chemical and physics are required.

TEACHING METHODS

The course foreseen oral lessons, exercises, educational field trips, use of simulation software.

As part of the innovation learning project adopted by the Bachelor Degree Course in Chemical and Process Engineering, novel tools will be used for the active learning of students. The goal is to increase students' skills via interactive, experience-based, learning methodologies (e-learning, teamwork, etc.) for enhanced student participation, using an advanced level of communication that makes the student more aware and indipendent.

Students with SLD, disability or other special educational needs certification are advised to contact the teacher at the beginning of the course to agree on teaching methods that, in compliance with the teaching objectives, take into account the modalities learning opportunities and provide suitable compensatory tools.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Process Design: Conceptual process design. Process flowsheeting. Sustainability in chemical and process engineering design, incorporating economic analysis and human dimensions
• Process modelling and simulation: Concepts of process modelling and simulation. Principles of measurement systems and process measurement
• Case Studies: A number of process development case studies will be carried out using commercial software packages
• Group Project: Teams of students will carry out an industrial process design case study. Each team is expected to present findings and conclusions at various stages and submit a final report for assessment demonstrating making judgements and communication skills

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Teaching material and exercises will be available on Aulaweb platform.

The following book and standards could be useful a follow-up.

1. James M. Douglas. Conceptual Design of Chemical Processes. McGraw-Hill Book Company
2. Gerardo Ruiz Mercado, Heriberto Cabezas. Sustainability in the Design, Synthesis and Analysis of Chemical Engineering Processes. Butterworth-Heinemann, 2016
3. MEASURING MATERIAL FLOWS AND RESOURCE PRODUCTIVITY Volume I. The OECD Guide
4. ISO Standards 14040-14044 (2006)

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

ADRIANA DEL BORGHI (President)

PAOLA COSTAMAGNA

MICHELA GALLO

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://corsi.unige.it/10376/p/studenti-orario

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of an oral examination. 

Three exam sessions will be foreseen during the winter session (January, February and during the Easter didactic stop of the Polytechnic School) and four exam sessions will be foreseen during the summer session (June, July, September and during the fall stop of the Polytechnic School). No extraordinary further exam sessions will be issued outside the regular Polytechnic School periods, with the exceptions of students without didactic activities in their current academic year curriculum.

Students with SLD, disability or other special educational needs certification are advised to contact the teacher at the beginning of the course to agree on exam methods that, in compliance with the teaching objectives, take into account the modalities learning opportunities and provide suitable compensatory tools.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The learning outcomes are assessed through an oral exam.

During the oral examination, there will be questions on process development and modeling. The exam aims to evaluate skills to apply the learning to specific case studies and to critically analyze processes from a comprehensive and holistic point of view. Quality of the presentation, correct terminology, and critical thinking skills will also be evaluated.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Working students and students with SLD, disability or other special educational needs certification are advised to contact the teacher at the beginning of the course to agree on teaching and examination methods that, in compliance with the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning modalities.