Sustainable Biobased Processes: Capstone Project

Course Description

Embark on an exciting journey into the world of sustainable biobased processes with this advanced capstone project. As the crowning achievement of the MicroMasters Program in Chemistry and Technology for Sustainability, this course offers you the unique opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to design a cutting-edge, eco-friendly process from biomass to finished product. You'll dive deep into the intricacies of conversion processes, making critical decisions about catalysts, reactor types, organisms, and feedstocks while keeping sustainability at the forefront of your design.

What students will learn from the course:

• Design a comprehensive sustainable biobased process
• Select and justify appropriate catalysts for the process
• Choose suitable organisms and discuss their impact on the process
• Identify the most effective feedstock for the biobased process
• Calculate and analyze mass balances for the entire process
• Develop a professional, in-depth report on the designed process
• Integrate knowledge from previous courses in the MicroMasters Program
• Apply sustainability principles to real-world chemical engineering challenges

Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course:

To excel in this capstone project, you must have successfully completed all other courses in the MicroMasters Program in Chemistry and Technology for Sustainability with verified certificates. These courses include:

1. Biorefinery: From Biomass to Building Blocks of Biobased Products
2. Catalytic Conversions for Biobased Chemicals and Products
3. From Fossil Resources to Biomass: A Business and Economics Perspective

The knowledge and skills gained from these courses are essential for tackling the complex challenges presented in this capstone project.

What the course will cover:

• Sustainable biobased process design principles
• Catalyst selection and optimization for biobased processes
• Organism selection and its impact on process efficiency
• Feedstock analysis and selection for optimal sustainability
• Mass balance calculations for biobased processes
• Professional report writing and presentation skills
• Integration of biorefinery concepts, catalytic conversions, and business perspectives
• Sustainability assessment in chemical engineering processes

Who this course is for:

• Advanced students in chemical engineering, biotechnology, or related fields
• Professionals seeking to transition into sustainable chemical processes
• Researchers interested in biobased product development
• Entrepreneurs looking to innovate in the green chemistry sector
• Anyone passionate about contributing to a more sustainable future through chemistry and technology

How learners can use these skills in the real world:

• Design and optimize biobased processes for industrial applications
• Develop innovative, eco-friendly products using renewable resources
• Consult on sustainability initiatives for chemical companies
• Lead research and development teams in green chemistry
• Start their own sustainable chemical technology ventures
• Contribute to policy-making in environmental and energy sectors
• Advance academic research in biobased processes and products

Syllabus:

Module 1: Preparation

• Recap questions on previous course material
• Additional reading materials for project preparation
• Open to all learners, including those auditing the course

Module 2: Capstone Project (Verified certificate holders only)

• Presentation of the case study
• Additional guidelines for project completion
• Submission of project outline
• Submission of draft report
• Submission of final report

By completing this capstone project, you'll not only earn your MicroMasters credential but also gain the confidence and expertise to make a significant impact in the field of sustainable chemistry and technology.