Ateneo - UPO

In the course, an initial review of thermodynamics and kinetics in chemical reactions and catalysis will be conducted, with particular attention to equilibrium systems. The main unit operations underlying chemical processes and the main types of chemical reactors will be covered. The course will then delve into raw materials commonly used in industry. Finally, the focus will be on typical industrial processes in the chemical industry, with particular attention to green processes developed as alternatives to standard synthesis processes.

“Fondamenti di Chimica Industriale” by F. Cavani, G. Centi, M. Di Serio, I. Rossetti, A. Salvini, G. Strukul (Zanichelli Editore).
“Physical Chemistry” by P. Atkins e J. De Paula (Oxford University Press)

Ability of the student to critically address issues related to the use of renewable sources, with particular attention to the balance of specific advantages / criticalities.
Knowledge and understanding of some chemical processes, with particular attention to recent proposals aimed at reducing their environmental impact.
Basic knowledge of the chemical-physical processes underlying the chemistry of formulations.

Attendance of mathematics, physical chemistry and organic chemistry courses.

Classroom lessons with slides, videos and exercises. The .pdf files of the lectures will be available on DIR platform.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special
Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff
Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli
Studenti, consulting the University webpage:
https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities

Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education
needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the
tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities,
concerning academic aspects.

Learning assessment is aimed at evaluating the level of knowledge of the course topics, the ability to apply these concepts to solving numerical problems, independent judgment in technological choices, and the command of specialized terminology.The exam consists of a written test containing:1 numerical exercise, aimed at verifying application skills (e.g., calculations on thermodynamics and kinetics in chemical reactions and catalysis);2 open-ended theoretical questions, aimed at evaluating acquired knowledge and independent judgment by requiring candidates to compare raw materials, justify synthetic choices, or analyze processes;1 open-ended theoretical question on the laboratory experiences.Each question/exercise is assigned a specific score. The sum of the maximum scores is equal to 33/30 (achieving 33 points results in graduating with honors/laude). The test is considered passed with a minimum grade of 18/30.

Outline of thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. Introduction to catalysis.
Principles of industrial chemistry. Properties of gases and liquids. Material and energy balances.
Energy and sustainability issues. Green chemistry concept. Efficiency, atom economy and E -factor with examples. Renewable resources. Non-renewable resources.
Raw material. Petrolium. Natural gas. Coal. Lignocellulosic biomass.
Examples of traditional chemical processes in the synthesis of basic chemicals and green alternatives.
Formulation chemistry: introduction, use of surfactants, dispersions, emulsions and stability of dispersed systems. Application examples in the detergent, cosmetic and cement industries.

The student will be able to critically deal with discussions on the use of renewable sources as alternatives to fossil fuels. The student will also be able to understand the advantages and problems related to the use of specific low environmental impact processes in industry. Finally, the student will be able to propose and structure chemical formulations suitable for responding to specific industrial needs.