Module A: attending this course students acquire knowledge of fundamental aspects of plant biomass valorisation and biomass-derived molecules by sustainable chemical processes. In particular, at the end of the course the student will be able to: • identify and classify the origin of different kinds of biomass; • indentify potential chemical processes for biomass use for both platform molecules and fine chemicals production; • evalutate the sustainability of selected processes; • efficiently communicate with specialised workers with the correct use of scientific terminology.
Course Prerequisites
Module A: fundamental knowledge of general, organic and biological chemistry is needed.
Teaching Methods
Module A: the course consists of 24 hours of frontal lessons. Lessons are supported by PowerPoint slides and digital board, for example discussing about chemical structures and reactivity.
Assessment Methods
All the topics discussed during the course and the laboratory are subject of examination, including supplementary material presented in the form of articles or seminars. Module A: the final evaluation is an oral exam, assessing the of knowledge acquired by the candidate on the topics discussed during the course. The final exam starts with the student giving a 10 minutes oral presentation on a recent research paper/patent, selected by the candidate, describing a biomass valorization process followed by questions.
Contents
Modulo A: Origin, classification and composition of plant biomass. Platform biomolecules: classification and uses. Production of chemicals from biomass: catalytic and thermochemical approaches and alternative techniques. (Bio)catalytic processes for biomass conversion: fatty acids and plat oils applications, production of (di)carboxylic acids, valorization of furanic substrates. Polymers production from biomass: direct use of bio-derived molecules, monomers production from biomass.
Course Language
Italian
More information
Office Hours: Module A: Prof. Francesco Della Monica will meet students upon appointment scheduled by e-mail at the Department of Biotechnology and Life Science (blue floor, via J. H. Dunant n. 3, Varese).
