The course will be taught by case study, developing understanding of product development, technological issues, process decisions and implementation. Product evaluation and characterisation methods are introduced. The studies will be based around the processing of zirconia (allowing the development of materials processing routes, phase control (phase diagrams), mechanical properties and the evaluation of microstructure). Catalyst extrusion (alumina supports, exploring sol-gel technologies and soft solids processing routes). The development of plastic recycling and recyclable plastics is covered in the circular economy. Bio fuel production via thermochemical routes is covered. The final bio processing case study will concentrate on magnetic fishing. Starting from basic first principles the development of powerful magnetic techniques for bioprocessing will be described. Using examples, the properties required of magnetic adsorbents and magnetic separator equipment will be described, the ways in which magnetic bioprocesses can be operated, modelled and optimised will be demonstrated, and future prospects of magnetic fishing technology within the bioprocess industries will be highlighted.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to:
Demonstrate detailed understanding of the steps involved in product development and evaluation;
Evaluate a product specification and demonstrate an ability to consider the engineering approaches to achieve that specification;
Understand and describe simple mechanical testing methods, phase analysis of samples and from phase diagrams, soft solids evaluations and characteristics;
Understand and describe bio-processes in formulation and comment on their development and use.
Assessment
23627-04 : Class Test 1 : Class Test (10%)
23627-05 : Class Test 2 : Class Test (10%)
23627-07 : Exam : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Seen (80%)