Combustíveis Sustentáveis

Objectives

To supply the students with an integrated view of the production and use of alternative fuels. To perform the detailed analysis of gasification processes, with a special emphasis on the SynGas production and its conversion into synthetic fuels, including hydrogen. Overview of the different alternatives of chemical or biological conversion of biomass to liquid fuels. At the end of the course the students should be able to identify the different alternative fuels and compare their respective advantages and disadvantages, from production, storage, distribution and usage.

Syllabus

World energy overview. Historical view of the use of fuels. Types of fuels and types of engines and corresponding relationship. Fossil fuels – origin, from conventional to non-conventional. The production of fuels by conversion of biomass, by either chemical or biological processes. Production of hydrogen by reforming and electrochemical processes. Hydrogen production as a way to store energy from renewable sources that are not permanently available. Processes for the production of SynGas by gasification of biomass, coal and hydrocarbons. Catalytic conversion of SynGas into different hydrocarbons by the Fischer-Tropsch process. Post-processing of the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis products. Chemical processes of wood conversion in liquid fuels – pyrolysis oil, lignin and cellulose depolymerization in liquid phase. Fuel formulation. The role of the different fuel additives. Techno-economic analysis of the conversion processes of gaseous into liquid fuels.

Cross Competence Component

Students develop their projects in small groups (typically 2 students per group), which allows them to improve their intra- and interpersonal competences. The project is subject to a public oral presentation and written report, working on oral and written communication skills. It also develops the literacy capacities of scientific information and media, through the research and management of information collected and the use of computer tools to produce presentations/videos. The unfolding of the project requires the development of critical and innovative thinking through the ability to seek, question and critically analyse the solutions investigated and the ability to propose new ones. The projects are proposed by students, from different cultural backgrounds, and often reflect environmental and sustainability concerns, allowing to develop citizenship responsibilities. Contributes with 10% to the total evaluation.

Laboratorial Component

There are no specific laboratory classes but, during the project development, the students are encouraged, whenever possible, to perform a limited amount experimental work in research labs.

Programming And Computing Component

There are no specific computational components but, during the project development, the students are encouraged to include simulations in their project, depending on the subject chosen.

Ethical Principles

All members of a group are responsible for the group´s work. In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.