Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Bachelor Degree (or equivalent accredited prior learning) preferably in engineering (for awareness of technical design and regulatory frameworks including Health and Safety) but (subject to specific approval) in cognate applied physical or environmental sciences or technology. For non-native speakers, evidence of English language competence (to a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with higher levels of attainment strongly recommended).

Co Requisite Comment

Non-native speakers of English whose current level of attainment is less than UELA 70 or IELTS 7.0 (or recognised equivalent) in all four aspects of communication (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) should be attending the non-credit-bearing in-sessional English language support classes provided by the University.

Aims

The aim of the module is to provide students with a systematic and comprehensive knowledge of the sources of biomass and the range of technologies available for conversion into energy. The module will focus on the opportunities and potential for biomass to contribute to the production of renewable heat, electricity and transport fuel together with the potential for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The module examines biomass resources and technologies available for conversion to energy. The module looks at technologies for the production of heat, electricity and transport fuel, the economics of production and the potential for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The potential for reducing costs of the different technologies are considered via research and development, improved efficiencies, implementation design decisions, the circular bioeconomy, etc.

Outline Of Syllabus

Units Content:

Biomass resources, policy and potential contribution to EU and UK targets
Biomass and waste technologies
Biomass heat
Gasification
Anaerobic digestion
Biofuel technologies
Environmental performance/issues/integration
Economics/costs
Circular Bioeconomy

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of this module students should be able to:
Appreciate and critically evaluate the potential of biomass to contribute to renewable energy production and reductions in CO2.
Identify and evaluate the policy drivers at an International, National and Regional level relating to renewable energy and biomass.
Critically evaluate the barriers to uptake of biomass as a renewable energy source. Identify the range of biomass resources available for energy production.
Critically evaluate a range of technologies available for energy production from biomass and analyse the potential for future reduction in costs through technological development.
Critically analyse the economics of energy production from biomass when compared with fossil fuels and other sources of renewable energy.
Draw all these factors into decisions relating to energy production from biomass and the design of biomass energy systems.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of this module students should be able to:
Illustrate an understanding of theoretical concepts and practical implementation associated with chemical engineering systems and processes in renewable energy systems.
Collate, analyse and evaluate data associated with the selection and design of energy recovery and circular systems.
Identify problems, produce and appraise design solutions for biomass engineering systems.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The module will be delivered by a series of lectures, supported by online materials for review.

On-line quizzes in Canvas will be used for formative assessment

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The post-school assignment allows students to develop a deeper understanding of a particular biomass conversion technology. Knowledge and understanding will be assessed via the unseen written examination.

Subject specific, cognitive and communication skills will also be assessed through both the written examination and assignment. The other key skills will not be assessed but students will need to utilise these skills in order to access the self guided material and prepare assignments.

General Notes

N/A