Sustainable Resource Recovery (MLJ660)
This course introduce the fundamentals/basic theories and technologies for processing of organic wastes to biofuels and biochemical products via biotechnological unit processes. Additionally, methodologies and concepts for valorisation of wastes, biotechnological processes and bioproducts are discussed towards the perspectives of circular economy.
Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
MLJ660
Version
2
Credits (ECTS)
5
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English
Content
NB! This is an elective course and may be canceled if fewer than 10 students are enrolled by August 20th for the autumn semester.
This course provides the fundamentals/basics of processing organic wastes to various fuels and biochemical products through biotechnological processes. This also includes terminology and methods for valorisation of organic waste, bioproducts and technology for processing. The course also focuses on design of lab scale reactor systems and pilot plant demonstrations of several waste treatment methods. Industrial scale applications and methodologies are also presented. Biomass conversion by biochemical, thermo-chemical and integrative processing is necessary to achieve sustainable conversion of organic waste into valuable chemicals. This is an underlying principle used throughout the course.
Additionally, understanding of the commercial aspects of solid/organic waste management and treatment is discussed, with focus on sustainability and the circular economy.
Learning outcome
Students who successfully pass this course will gain knowledge and competence on the following subjects
- Principles and understanding of concepts for organic waste and biomass treatment/valorisation
- Commercial perspectives of waste-to-wealth concept
- Selection of suitable technologies for the optimum energy/chemical production from biomass
- Design and operation of energy/chemical production systems
- Critical evaluations of organic wastes and sustainability within the circular economy via various tools SWOT, TEA and LCA
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Basics in Chemical/Process Engineering
Exam
Written mid-term exam and report
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written mid-term Exam | 1/2 | 3 Hours | Letter grades | |
| Report | 1/2 | 1 Months | Letter grades |
Coursework requirements
A compulsory, oral group presentation of the report must be approved in order to get the final grade in the course.
In cases of valid absence it may be possible to complete the oral presentation at other times, where agreed with the teaching staff. This is not an entitlement.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Gopalakrishnan KumarStudy Program Director:
Krista Michelle KasterMethod of work
Lectures 4 hrs/week (2+2). Exercises.
Open for
Admission requirements
A completed bachelor’s degree