SCV0819 - BIOREFINERIES

The course is fundamental to an-up-to-date preparation of a student in Biotechnology for the Bio-based and Health Industry. The goal is providing a thorough understanding of the modern concept of biorefineries, integrating knowledge of fundamental principles, terminology, methodology, and processes to produce biofuels, biogas, biohydrogen, bioplastics, bioelectricity and bio-oils using the metabolic diversity of microorganisms. Microbial processes will be integrated in the frame of circular economy for the conversion of recalcitrant biomasses in added-value products. Students will learn the state-of-the-art in techniques for the exploitation of microbial metabolic pathways for sustainable energy production from renewable sources and environmental protection. The course is based on theoretical lessons and meetings with experts in biogas production, biofuels production, algae factories, bioplastic production plants. Onsite visits to production plants are planned and onsite lessons and interviews will create a network between students and experts in the field. The learning outcomes are the following:
- understanding and critically reviewing the biotec processes involved in biorefineries through the comprehension of scientific texts (in English) and experimental data analysis
- using knowledge to evaluate the aims and/or the potentials of microbial process to convert renewable biomasses and generate added-value products respecting the environment
- applying the knowledge in the field of microbial biotechnology to industrial processes
- demonstrating effective communication skills with the experts using appropriate terminology
- demonstrating attitude to working in interdisciplinary groups