Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

This unit is the culmination of your Chemical Technology studies. It is designed to demonstrate the process principles and unit operations learned in PQB423 and PQB525/PQB524 through a series of field trips to large industrial installations and to use your knowledge of Chemical Technology to foster the development of generic skills relevant to industry. The latter include effective teamwork, active participation in group problem solving situations, the collection of technical information from different sources, integration of this information and poster presentation. This unit is intended to present you as a well-rounded graduate entering the workforce.

Aims

1. To expand your knowledge of the chemical industry by in depth discussion of critical theory and processes.
2. To provide you with the opportunity to understand how actual industrial chemistry facilities operate and what is expected from you in terms of working with these companies.
3. To equip you with the appropriate skills that are expected of a professional Industrial Chemist.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of the underlying principles and unit operations relevant to major chemical industries.
2. Understand the relationship between chemical theory and actual industrial practice.
3. Solve complex industrial chemistry problems by laterally thinking of innovative solutions.
4. Communicate effectively to your peers information relating to the chemical industry, research data and corporate strategy.

Content

The content of this unit relates to modern industrial Chemistry which is concerned primarily with making processes more competitive, environmentally friendly (green chemistry) and how to cope with the imminent demise of oil and natural gas as chemical feedstocks.
Enabling Technologies
· This part of the unit focuses on the key technologies which facilitate green chemistry outcomes:
· Heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis
· Industrial biotechnology
· Membrane science
· Waste minimisation and waste treatment
Field Trips to Major Industrial Installations
This part of the unit concentrates on bridging the gap between theory and actual industrial application of the chemical principles you have learned. Visits will be made to major chemical industries

Poster Presentation
This component is designed to allow you to communicate effectively your knowledge of industrial chemistry. Key learning aspects include: assimilation of relevant data; critical evaluation to determine the key points; effective presentation; ability to discuss content and display deep understanding of the topic.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

This unit will consist of 24 lectures on topics related to industrial chemistry practice, 10 two-hour group participation sessions and at least two field trips. Group participation sessions will be carried out in the tutorial room in the presence of the lecturer and, as the project progresses, in locations convenient to the group

Assessment

You will be expected to undertake a number of assessment items related to the learning outcomes of this unit (see below).You can gain immediate feedback on your progress in this unit by one on one discussion. Assessment of how you are proceeding will also be given as needed when preparing case studies or poster presentations. Sample questions will also be provided to facilitate your readiness for exams.

Assessment name: Examination (written)
Description: Final theory exam to assess our knowledge and understanding of the overall unit content
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 3
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Exam period

Assessment name: Case Study
Description: Written case study
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 3
Weight: 30%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 13

Assessment name: Poster Presentation
Description: Graphic representation of industrial chemical research at QUT
Relates to objectives: 2 and 4
Weight: 10%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 12

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Briscoe, M.H., Preparing Scientific Illustrations, 2nd Ed, New York, Springer, 1996.

Risk assessment statement

The professional practice of Chemical Technology requires an understanding of safety precautions in the workplace. Several factory visits constitute an important part of this unit, so you will be required to take all necessary safety precautions. The procedures used in this unit are those that apply to all personnel entering the factories. You will be instructed in the precautionary requirements prior to each visit. You will also be provided with a School Health and Safety Manual in this unit (or a prerequisite unit). Having been provided with this information it is your responsibility to read and comply with these instructions for the safety of yourself, your fellow students and staff.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 09-Nov-2012