Bioenergy

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Critically assess the quality of the data and the information source
• Summarise the main sources of biomass, and the context within which biomass is considered as a renewable energy source
• Distinguish between the different biomass conversion processes in terms of operating conditions, useful products and by-products
• Evaluate the benefits and problems relating to the production and use of different forms of biomass energy
• Select and design systems that work for the community, the environment and the client by making the appropriate assumptions and utilising the right tools and analyses
• Calculate the energy generating potential of biomass as an energy source used in different system design choices
• Investigate the energy conversion efficiency quantitatively using a full life cycle approach in any particular context

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically, including prior research
• Collate and integrate lines of evidence from different disciplines to develop and consolidate knowledge and understanding on an objective basis
• Propose reasoned arguments, justifying conclusions and recommendations by reference to appropriate analytical frameworks and supporting evidence
• Use facts and data to support arguments, and assemble and critically evaluate relevant information from several sources and develop a personal point of view

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Compare different bioenergy technologies from various perspectives
• Demonstrate the ability to present and defend research in written form

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Report writing
• Critical Analysis
• Information handling
• Problem analysis and problem solving
• Exercise independent judgement

BIOENERGY CONTEXT

The need for bioenergy; Challenges; Bioenergy framework and roadmap.

BIOMASS AS FEEDSTOCK FOR BIOENERGY PRODUCTION

Sources; Photosynthetic efficiency; Solids and energy content; Biochemical composition; Biomass logistics

MECHANICAL, BIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL AND THERMOCHEMICAL CONVERSIONS FOR BIOFUEL AND BIOENERGY PRODUCTION

These include: Anaerobic digestion for biogas production; Fermentation for bioethanol and biobutanol production; Transesterification for biodiesel production; Pyrolysis; Gasification; Combustion; Microbial electrochemical systems; Biorefinery

BIOENERGY USE

Electricity; Heat; Motion (transport fuel).

ENERGY BALANCE ANALYSIS; ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACT OF BIOENERGY PRODUCTION

The main teaching and learning methods are lectures and coursework supported by tutorial sessions. A visit to a commercial anaerobic digestion plant is also included.

Because of the nature of the course, reading of additional material is recommended, associated both with the general aspects of the course and to back up individual lectures. A number of web-based resources are provided to help reinforce the basic material covered in the lecture course.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.