411-101 Introduction to Chemical Engineering

The objective of this unit is to provide a comprehensive introduction to the discipline of chemical engineering, its role in the modern world, the challenges that lie ahead and the tools available to the chemical engineer.

This subject comprises lectures, tutorial sessions and plant visits covering the following areas: the origins of chemical engineering and its historical development; basic chemical engineering concepts and principles and their role in the development of integrated chemical processes; the traditional chemical engineering industries: oil refining, petrochemicals, heavy chemicals; the expanding involvement of chemical engineers in the biochemical, food, mineral, electronics and environmental fields; and factors influencing the design and operation of process plants: safety, risk and hazards; costs and profitability; environmental considerations; and community interactions.

Instruction will also be provided in basic computing skills, effective communication and information retrieval.

Up to four written assignments, of around 2000 words in length and one examination not exceeding three hours. Students will be notified of the weighting of assessment components at the beginning of the semester.