The focus of part I of the case study course lies on the literature-based comparison of chemical process alternatives. Based on this compilation and selected quantitative as well as qualitative measures, a process assessment and comparison is conducted. A basic flowsheet is then generated, and mass and energy balances are performed to carry out a preliminary economic and environmental assessment.

Based on part I of the case study course the main reaction and purification steps of one process alternative are investigated. Models describing the different unit operations have to be built. These models are used for a sensitivity analysis and optimization of the operating conditions. The results are discussed with regard to technical, economic, safety, and environmental implications.

Introduction to various tools of chemical engineering techniques with reference to the lectures. In groups of two, students will conduct experiments in the following areas: thermodynamics and phase equilibria including electrochemistry, transport phenomena, kinetics and selectivity of complex reactions, characterisation of ideal and real reactors.

Intoduction to the main specific areas in chemical and biochemical engineering. The students sharpen their laboratory skills and learn to plan and perform problem-oriented experiments and to analyse, interpret and present the results.

Speakers from industry and academia are invited to give talks on recent work and interests in different topics of chemical engineering in the form of scientific seminars.

Basic principles of inorganic, physical and organic chemistry. Topics include atomic models, electron structure, chemical bonds, ionic and covalent materials, acid-base concepts, chemical equilibrium, fundamentals of thermodynamics and kinetics, electrochemistry as well as the most important classes of compounds and types of reactions in organic chemistry.

Kinetics of homogeneous reactions. Ideal reactors: optimization of conversion and selectivity for complex kinetic networks. Thermal effects in chemical reactors. Residence time distribution. Analysis and design of real reactors. Fast reactions in turbulent flows. Sensitivity and stability of chemical reactors.

This practical course provides an introduction to elementary laboratory techniques.The experiments cover a wide range of techniques, including analytical and synthetic techniques (e. g. investigation of soil and water samples or the preparation of simple compunds). Furthermore, the handling of gaseous substances is practised.