Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

A basic knowledge of materials science from Stage 1 or 2 of an engineering or science degree.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module aims to provide students with an understanding of modern energy storage and handling systems from conventional batteries through photo-voltaics to fuel cells and bio-fuels. The topics will be illustrated with industrial and transport applications. Consideration of alternative and sustainable energy sources will be provided as well as discussion of efficiency and cost issues.

Outline Of Syllabus

The development of energy storage technology will be explained starting with primary batteries and then secondary cells. Improvements and design requirements for rail and other transport uses will be discussed (emergency lighting systems). Modern Li-ion, metal hydride (hydrogen storage), solid state and metal-air batteries will be described with links to their practical applications in transport and technological systems. The efficiency of systems and the concept of ‘smart batteries’ will be introduced.

The history of fuel cell development and the fundamental kinetics and chemical thermodynamics behind them are outlined. Their advantages and disadvantages are discussed and the various types (low, medium and high temperature) of cell will be introduced along with the material selection issues associated with their operation.

Developments in applications (including space travel) would be explained with reference to the change from hydrogen/oxygen cells to alkaline/PEM cells.
The current status and prospects for bio-fuel cells are also outlined.

Bio fuels – solid, liquid and gas sources. Production of bio-alcohols, bio-diesel and syngas. Applications in transport and development of green fuels.

Photo-voltaics to include fundamentals of solar cells, properties and design, single and multiple junction solar panels, semi-conducting materials for solar cells. Design of stand-alone systems, manufacturing routes and environmental impact of system development.


Alternative energy systems, thermoelectric systems, Peltier and Seebeck effects, thermoelectric materials (bismuth telluride, automotive thermoelectric generators and radioisotope power generators), thermoelectric refrigeration and heat pumps. Concepts in renewable energy will be discussed.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students should have a knowledge and understanding of:

• How present energy storage concepts have developed over time and the advantages and limitations of such
systems in answering particular energy needs.

• Batteries, Fuel Cells, Bio-Fuels, Photovoltaic systems and alternative energy sources.

• Approaches to energy storage and be able to select appropriate systems for particular applications.

Intended Skill Outcomes

• An ability to understand the merits of several modern energy generation systems (M4 and M13).

• To identify and select appropriate batteries for energy storage applications (M4).

• To be able to use data to calculate the performance and output of energy systems (M1 and M2).

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures are designed to assist the students in acquisition of a knowledge base that will facilitate an understanding of energy storage systems and their applications. Tutorial exercises will enable students to practice analysis of systems and match energy systems to particular applications.

Private study will strengthen their knowledge base and enable students to tackle the formative and assessed tutorial sheet with greater confidence.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Knowledge and understanding of new and traditional energy storage and sustainable generation systems is examined by a written paper. The take-home tutorial sheets and the online problem solving exercises enable the students to develop a deeper understanding of some aspects of the lectures and build their confidence in this subject area prior to the examination.

General Notes

MSc only Resit by 100% examination.

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