Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemical Reaction Engineering
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
3rd Year Director of Studies
SCQF
Level
9
1. Pre-requisites
B48BC Process Engineering B
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
B49CF Process Modelling and Control (Synoptic)
4. Replacement Module
Code:
5.
Module
Code
Semester
B49CC
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
1
No
On or OffCampus
ON
Credits
15
X
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
All BEng and MEng Chemical Engineering Degrees
This module is aimed at applying knowledge of chemical reaction rates to the sizing and operation of chemical reactors. Students apply stoichiometry, reaction kinetics
and chemical equilibrium to different types of chemical reactions. They also develop an understanding of how a chemical reactor would work or is working, learn to apply
the methods for sizing ‘ideal’ reactors for different reaction types, and achieve and understanding of the basics of ‘non-ideal’ flow and their application in sizing of ‘nonideal’ reactors. Learning materials are supported by practical laboratory experiments; e.g. measuring residence time distributions, determining rate constants.
8. Syllabus





Main objectives in reactor design. A review of stoichiometry, reaction kinetics and chemical equilibrium.
Batch reactors: design equation. Integral and differential techniques for investigating kinetics. Batch reactor sizing.
Continuous reactors: Design equations for plug flow and continuous stirred tank reactors and their analytical and numerical solution. Reactor combinations.
Autocatalytic reactions.
Multiphase reactions: product distribution; selectivity and yield. Rate equations for multiple reactions. Parallel and series reactions and optimum choice of
reactor type and operating conditions.
Non-ideal flow: residence time and cumulative residence time distribution. Stimulus response techniques. Mean residence time. Non-ideal flow models for
estimating conversions; Segregated flow, tanks-in-series and axial dispersion models.
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemical Reaction Engineering
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
3rd Year Director of Studies
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
Semester
B49CC
1
On or OffCampus
ON
Credits
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
Students will be able to:
 Understand the principles of batch and continuous reactors.
 Apply chemical principles of stoichiometry, reaction kinetics and chemical equilibrium to reactor design.
 Be able to size a chemical reactor for different types of reactions in both ideal and non-ideal flows.
 Apply methods to determine the size of chemical reactors.
 Recognise the limitations imposed by non-ideal flow.
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others
Students will be able to:
 Apply mathematical techniques to analyse chemical reactions.
 Describe the features of batch and continuous reactors.
 Demonstrate competence in practical application of theory.
 Work in small groups on specific technical topics.
 Analyse and report on technical issues.
10. Assessment Methods
Method
Examination
Communication, Numeracy & ICT
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
2 hours
Coursework
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
70%
B49CF
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
Examination (synoptic with
B49CF)
3 hours
30%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
29 Feb 2008
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
1.0