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529-0619-01L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-MATL , D-CHAB

Chemical Product Design

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Wendelin Jan Stark
Prerequisites: Basic chemistry and chemical engineering knowledge (Diffusion, Thermodynamics, Kinetics,...).
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:35

Abstract

The 'Chemical Product Design' course teaches students quantitative concepts to analyze, select and transform theoretical concepts from chemistry and engineering into valuable real-world products. Basic chemistry and chemical engineering knowledge is required (Diffusion, Thermodynamics, Kinetics, ..).

Objective

This course starts with analyzing existing chemical needs and unmet technical challenges. We then develop the skills to critically analyze a specific chemical idea for a product, to rapidly test feasibility or chance for success and to eventually realize its manufacturing. The chemical engineering basics are then used to assess performance of products or devices with non-traditional functions based on dynamic properties (e.g. responsive building materials; personal medical diagnostics on paper strips). The course teaches the interface between laboratory and market with a specific focus on evaluating the chemical value of a given process or compound, and the necessary steps to pursue the resulting project within an entrepreneurial environment. We therefore extend the questions of process design ('how do we make something?') to the question of 'what should we make?

Content

Part A: The 'Chemical Product Design' course starts with discussing questions along, 'What is a chemical product, and why do people pay for it? How does a given compound in a specific setting provide a service?' We then learn how to translate new, often ill-defined wishes or ideas into quantifiable specifications. Part B: Thermodynamic and kinetic data allow sharp selection criteria for successful products. We learn how to deal with insufficient data and development of robust case models to evaluate their technical and financial constraints. How can parameters of a running process in one industry be scaled into another industry? Can dimensionless engineering numbers be applied beyond traditional chemical processes? Part C: Manufacturing of commodity products, devices and molecular products: Chemical reactors, separation and detection or isolation units as part of a toolbox. Planning of manufacturing and decisions based on hard data. Providing quantitative answers on potential value generated. Students are expected to actively develop chemical products along the course during the exercise sessions. Contributions will be made in small groups, where a larger topic is studied. The progress of each group will be followed by reports and short presentations during the semester, and one final pitching presentation at the end of the semester. Active participation in the group projects is mandatory for the admission to the oral exam.

Resources

Literature

Cussler, E.L., Moggridge, C.D., Chemical Product Design, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK, 2nd edition, 2011. Original Literature: Issues and Trends in the Teaching of Process and Product Design, Biegler, L.T., Grossmann, I.E., Westerber, A.W., AIChE J., 56 (5) 1120-25, 2010.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes
It is mandatory to pass the compulsory performance assessment to be admitted to the oral exam, and it must be passed on its own. The compulsory performance assessment involves participation in group projects and is assessed based on written reports (pass/fail). To pass the compulsory performance assessment, one must contribute to at least 2/3 of all reports throughout the semester.All hard copy material is allowed.No electronic devices

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Chemical Product Design
Lecture: Wednesday Exercice: Monday
No time listed 3 h weekly

Offered In