Course Description

This course focuses on transitioning from fossil resources to renewable biomass resources in producing food, chemicals, and energy carriers. It explores the advantages of biomass, the processes of creating bioenergy, the production of biobased products, and the technological and chemical principles underlying these processes.

What Students Will Learn

• Basic chemical and technological concepts of the biobased value chain.
• Factors influencing the production of biobased crops.
• How biomass composition affects biorefinery processes.
• Utilization of microorganisms in producing biobased products.
• Role of catalysis in the biobased economy.

Prerequisites or Skills Necessary

A bachelor's degree in social sciences, especially in business or economics, is recommended but not required. An interest in sustainability and biobased industries is essential.

Course Coverage

• Chemical and technological foundations of biobased products.
• Production, influence, and types of biobased crops.
• Biorefinery processes including harvesting, pre-treatments, and conversion.
• Bioconversion and microbial production.
• Catalytic processes specific to biomass conversion.

Who This Course Is For

Individuals interested in bioeconomy, sustainability, environmental science, and those looking to transition industries from reliance on fossil resources to renewable biomass.

Real-World Application

The skills learned can be applied in multiple contexts including research, development in biotechnology firms, agricultural enhancements, sustainable business practices, and contributing to policy-making processes. The practical knowledge of biomass production and conversion can influence numerous sectors including energy, agriculture, and material manufacturing.

Syllabus

1. Introduction to Biobased Sciences: Understanding basic concepts and comparing with fossil-based processes.
2. Biomass Production: Critical factors in crop growth and biobased crop production strategies.
3. Biorefinery: Techniques for efficient extraction and conversion of biomass.
4. Bioconversion: Conversion processes involving microorganisms.
5. Chemical Conversion: Exploration of catalysis in biomass conversion.