Department of Chemical Engineering
Course Outcomes
Spring 2009
ENGR 1110
Course Outcomes (Revision: Spring 2009)
Committee: Davis, Duke, Josephson
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Describe representative career paths, industries and fields that are available to engineers.
2. Describe responsibilities and rewards of the engineering profession.
3. Identify and discuss the importance and impact of ethical, health, safety, and
environmental issues on individuals and society in relation to engineering activities.
4. Describe methods to evaluate team effectiveness and be able to explain the concepts of
team building, team dynamics and functional and dysfunctional team behaviors.
5. Execute a team-based, semester-long design project culminating in a written report and
oral presentation using goal setting and time management skills.
6. Prepare written documents (memos and short reports) and oral presentations summarizing
information from professional seminars and class-related activities.
7. Use standard software products to prepare spreadsheets, reports and presentations.
8. Explain and use elementary engineering procedures such as the “factor label method” of
unit conversion (aka “railroad tracks method”).
9. Describe on-campus professional development, educational, and career planning
resources available to engineering students (such as Career Fair, Cooperative Education
Office, Office of Engineering Student Services, etc.).
ENGR 2010
Course Outcomes (Revision: Spring 2009)
Committee: Roberts, Maples, Chambers
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Employ both the SI and American Engineering system of units when solving engineering
problems.
2. Explain the concepts of heat, work, kinetic energy, potential energy, internal energy,
enthalpy, entropy and availability.
3. Explain the concepts of closed and open systems, intensive and extensive properties,
thermodynamic state, process path, state and path functions, reference state and heat
capacity.
4. Explain the concepts of reversible and irreversible processes.
5. Explain and apply the first and second laws of thermodynamics for a closed system.
6. Use thermodynamic tables, charts and equations of state to obtain the properties of
density, temperature, pressure, specific volume, internal energy, enthalpy, entropy and
heat capacity for pure substances.
7. Employ single- and double-interpolation techniques to obtain thermodynamic data from
steam and refrigerant tables.
8. Draw a process path on P-v, T-v and T-s diagrams as an aid to solving thermodynamic
problems.
9. Explain the concepts of mass balances and control volumes for open systems.
10. Apply mass balances (mass rate equation) and the first and second laws to solve opensystem engineering problems.
11. Describe and analyze cyclic processes as related to heat engines, heat pumps, power
generation and refrigeration systems.
12. Design and evaluate thermodynamic processes to minimize entropic losses.
13. Calculate the efficiency of process equipment such as pumps, compressors, turbines and
nozzles.
CHEN 2100
Committee: Byrne, Chambers, Neuman
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Explain if the units in an equation are consistent and convert data between different
systems of units with an appropriate number of significant figures.
2. Employ linear interpolation to calculate intermediate values between given points in a
table or graph. Find the most appropriate equation of a line through a set of data where
the variables are related in a linear, semi-logarithmic, or logarithmic manner.
3. Explain the concepts of mass, density, specific gravity, chemical composition,
concentration, pressure and temperature as used to characterize process operations.
4. Construct and label a flow chart from a written description of a chemical process and
calculate the flow rate of process streams from mass, molar and volumetric units given
appropriate data.
5. Explain the fundamental concepts underlying general mass and energy balance equations.
6. Analyze, develop and solve mass balances for processes involving single and multiple
process units for process operations without chemical reaction.
7. Explain the concepts of recycle, purge, bypass, closed (batch) and open (flow) systems,
accumulation, steady state and transient operations, and basis of calculations. Apply
these concepts when developing and solving mass balances.
8. Explain the concepts of limiting reactant, excess reactants, conversion, stoichiometric
ratio, extent of reaction, atomic species balances, yield, and selectivity. Apply these
concepts when developing and solving mass balances involving reactive systems.
9. Employ the ideal gas law to calculate thermodynamic properties (P, V, n, and T) of pure
gases and gas mixtures applying the concepts of partial pressure, gauge and absolute
pressure, relative and absolute temperature. Distinguish between partial pressure and
vapor pressure.
10. Calculate the properties of single component real gases using generalized compressibility
charts.
11. Calculate the properties of superheated and saturated steam, vapor-liquid mixtures of
steam and liquid water, and subcooled water using the steam thermodynamic tables.
12. Calculate the molar composition of the gas phase for saturated and unsaturated gas-vapor
systems in terms of relative saturation or absolute composition using tabulated vapor
pressure data, vapor pressure figures (such as Cox chart) and empirical equations (such as
Antoine equation).
13. Calculate the vapor and liquid compositions of binary multiphase systems using Raoult’s
Law.
14. Explain the concepts of heat, work, kinetic energy, potential energy, internal energy,
enthalpy, intensive and extensive properties, thermodynamic state, process path, state and
path functions, reference state, and heat capacity.
15. Apply the first law of thermodynamics to a simple closed system undergoing a change
from an initial state to a final state and solve for the unknown energy term.
16. Perform energy balances on a simple open system to calculate the quantity of heat or
work transferred to or from the system and the change in enthalpy, kinetic and potential
energy in any stream.
17. Analyze, develop and solve energy balances for processes with a phase change.
18. Calculate the heat of reaction using standard heats of formation and standard heats of
combustion.
19. Analyze, develop and solve energy balances for processes involving single and multiple
process units for process operations with chemical reaction.
CHEN 2610
Committee: Placek, Duke, Lipke
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Employ the hydrostatic equation to calculate the pressure and resulting forces acting on
submerged objects.
2. Solve problems involving manometry concepts.
3. Solve problems involving buoyancy concepts.
4. Solve problems involving absolute and gauge pressure concepts.
5. Solve problems involving mass flow rate, volumetric flow rate, velocity profile, and
average velocity concepts.
6. Employ the continuity equation for steady flow to calculate flow rates in conduits of
constant and varying cross section including branched flow.
7. Explain the concepts of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid, viscosity, laminar and
turbulent flow, shear, shear stress, shear rate, fluid momentum.
8. Develop force and momentum balances in potential flow and viscous flow situations.
9. Calculate the friction factor and losses for laminar and turbulent flow in pipe using the
friction factor plot and appropriate equations.
10. Calculate the mechanical energy loss due to friction in a piping system containing various
kinds of valves and fittings.
11. Employ a mechanical energy balance to calculate flow rates, pipe sizes, power
requirements, and pump sizes for specific piping configurations.
12. Describe the characteristics of centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, and using
pump curves select an appropriate pump to deliver a specified flow rate.
13. Employ the concept of dimensional analysis to develop dimensionless numbers used in
fluid mechanics.
14. Explain the concepts of a boundary layer, skin drag, and form drag .
15. Calculate the drag on a submerged object of simple shape in a flowing fluid using drag
coefficient correlations.
16. Explain the concepts of porosity, void fraction, specific volume, specific surface area,
particle equivalent diameter.
17. Calculate pressure drop or flow rate for flow through packed beds in various flow
regimes.
CHEN 3370
Committee: Neuman, Davis, Gupta
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Predict the P-V-T properties of gases and liquids using equations of state including the
ideal gas law, van der Waals equation, virial equation, generalized cubic equations of
state, the Rackett equation and generalized compressibility factor charts.
2. Demonstrate the ability to select an appropriate equation of state or generalized
correlation or chart based on the temperature, pressure, chemical composition and
required level of precision in the answer.
3. Explain the concepts and definitions of enthalpy (H), entropy (S), Helmholtz energy (A),
Gibbs free energy (G), heat capacity at constant pressure (Cp) and volume (Cv), volume
expansivity, and isothermal compressibility.
4. Use multivariate calculus (partial and total derivatives) to develop general fundamental
property (Gibbs) relations for differential changes in fundamental thermodynamic
properties (U, H, A, G) in a simple closed system.
5. Apply multivariable calculus to derive the Maxwell relations and then develop the
“Fundamental Property Equations” to relate easily measured experimental properties
(P,V, T) to thermodynamic quantities (dU, dA, dH, dG).
6. Demonstrate the ability to use Fundamental Property Equations, Maxwell relations, and
equations of state in conjunction with one another to solve problems involving process
changes starting from either P-V-T data or thermodynamic property data.
7. Explain the concepts of departure functions, residual and excess properties and evaluate
these functions for practical engineering applications using equations of state or
generalized correlations.
8. Explain the concepts underlying phase equilibria for a pure gas, liquid or solid.
9. Explain the concepts of fugacity and fugacity coefficient.
10. Calculate the fugacities and fugacity coefficients using the equations of state and
generalized correlations.
11. Identify and explain the Clapeyron equation, Clausius-Clapeyron equation, shortcut
vapor pressure equation, Poynting correction, and Rackett equation.
12. Explain the concepts of chemical potential, partial molar properties, partial molar excess
properties, component fugacity, component fugacity coefficient, activity, activity
coefficient, standard state fugacity, ideal solution, thermodynamic properties of mixing,
and Lewis-Randall rule.
13. Explain the concepts underlying phase equilibria for multicomponent systems.
14. Evaluate component fugacity coefficients as a function of composition for ideal gas
mixtures, ideal solutions and real gas mixtures. Explain the concept of mixing rules.
15. Read accurately and extract thermodynamic vapor liquid equilibrium (VLE) data from
phase diagrams.
16. Construct P-x-y and T-x-y diagrams from experimental VLE data and various VLE
models.
17. Explain the concepts of activity coefficient as a correction factor for non-ideal solution
behavior and the thermodynamic relationship between activity coefficient and the partial
molar excess Gibbs energy. Explain what is meant by an activity (or activity coefficient)
model.
18. Calculate activity coefficients from experimental VLE data at a limited number of
compositions, develop (or fit) a model for the composition dependence of excess Gibbs
energy and, after differentiating, obtain a mathematical expression for predicting activity
coefficients across the composition range for use in engineering VLE problems including
the construction of phase diagrams.
19. Demonstrate the ability to use graphical techniques and the Gibbs-Duhem equation to test
for thermodynamic consistency between experimental and predicted data.
20. Explain the advantages and limitations of empirical activity models (Margules equations
and van Laar equation), regular solution models (Scatchard-Hildebrand) and local
composition models (Wilson, UNIQUAC, and UNIFAC).
21. Write the mathematical expression for the General VLE Equation (Gamma-Phi
formulation) including liquid and vapor nonideality and the Poynting correction and
explain and discuss the significance of each symbol in the equation.
22. Demonstrate the ability to simplify the General VLE Equation (non-ideal liquid, nonideal gas) based on the problem statement and solve equilibrium, bubble point, dew point,
and flash problems.
23. Demonstrate an awareness that the basic principles for solving VLE problems apply to
other types of equilibrium such as VLLE, LLE, and SLE.
24. Explain the concepts underlying chemical reaction equilibrium, minimization of Gibbs
energy, reaction coordinate, standard state Gibbs energy of reaction, equilibrium
constant, equilibrium conversion and yield.
25. Explain the effects of concentration, temperature, pressure and the addition of an inert
component on equilibrium conversion in gas phase reactions.
26. Calculate the equilibrium conversion and composition at a given temperature and
pressure for gas phase reactions using ideal gas mixture, ideal solution and real gas
mixture models.
27. Demonstrate awareness of the molecular basis for thermodynamics by explaining the
basic concepts of intermolecular potentials, the origin of the second virial coefficient and
the sign of excess properties.
CHEN 3600
Committee: Placek, Ashurst, Eden, Josephson
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Create effective graphs (x-y, scatter, line, surface) observing departmental format. Select
appropriate trend lines. Graph parametric functions.
2. Employ Excel’s standard and Advanced Tool Pack functions (basic math, advanced
math, logical, text, time/date, random number generation) to solve general and chemical
engineering problems.
3. Solve single and multiple variable linear regression problems using Excel’s vector and
array functions (transpose, inversion, determinants) and Excel’s regression analysis
package (including “best model” selection via F-statistic).
4. Record, modify and write Excel macros. Write VBA user defined functions and
subprograms including transferring data to and from the spreadsheet using absolute and
relative addressing methods as well as passing data via parameter lists.
5. Employ basic VBA programming concepts including data types, variables, and
programming structures (IF-THEN-ELSE, SELECT CASE, FOR-NEXT, DO
[WHILE/UNTIL] LOOP) to solve basic and intermediate level problems.
6. Employ systematic problem solving methods and critical thinking skills to set up the
equations required to obtain a solution of various chemical engineering and general
engineering problems.
7. Employ the “stepwise improvement method” to develop solutions for simple
programming problems.
8. Explain structured programming concepts (with specific reference to the “NassiSchneiderman diagramming method”) to prototype solutions for intermediate and
complex level programming problems.
9. Employ one dimensional vectors and two-dimensional arrays to represent and store data
collections including passing these as function and subprogram arguments.
10. Explain and employ probability concepts (including expectation, probability, likelihood,
descriptive statistics, discrete and continuous random variables, probability distribution
functions, cumulative distribution functions).
11. Apply discrete distribution functions (Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, negative binomial,
geometric, hypergeometric) and continuous distribution functions (standard normal,
normal, exponential, Weibull) to solve problems involving random behavior.
12. Sample data (via simulation) from discrete and continuous distributions
13. Explain the concept of hypothesis testing and correctly set up and interpret the results of
hypothesis tests involving the mean and proportion.
14. Prepare written communications (technical reports and memos) that effectively convey
the thoughts of the writer to the intended audience in a form and at level of detail
appropriate for the purpose of the communication (adhering to departmental formats for
the presentation of equations, figures, tables, and citations).
CHEN 3620
Committee: Neuman, Placek, Hanley
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Explain basic heat transfer concepts such as heat transfer rate, heat flux, thermal
resistance, thermal driving force, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, heat transfer
coefficients (individual and overall), local equilibrium, boiling, condensation and fouling,
and dimensionless numbers used in heat transfer.
2. Explain the basis for the mechanism of heat conduction. Apply Fourier’s law to solve
problems such as conduction through solids with simple geometries including series and
parallel applications.
3. Explain the basis for the mechanism of heat transfer via natural and forced convection.
Estimate heat transfer coefficients from correlation equations and solve convective heat
transfer problems.
4. Explain the basic concepts and temperature profiles associated with co-current, countercurrent, single and multi-pass heat exchangers. Solve a variety of heat exchanger
problems.
5. Explain the basic concepts (such as economy, capacity, boiling point elevation) and
operational factors (such as pressure, temperature, solubility, scaling, foaming) associated
with various types of single effect evaporators. Solve a variety of evaporator problems.
6. Explain basic radiation concepts such as Stefan-Boltzmann law, black and gray bodies,
emissivity, absorptivity, view factors. Solve basic heat transfer problems involving
radiation.
7. Explain basic thermal boundary layer concepts with reference to hydrodynamic boundary
layer concepts. Solve basic thermal boundary problems involving local and overall heat
transfer.
8. Apply available methods to solve unsteady-state heat transfer problems.
9. Explain the concept of molecular transport as it applies to momentum, heat and mass
transport. Explain the analogy between Newton’s law, Fourier’s law, and Fick’s law.
10. Explain the concept of convective transport as it applies to momentum, heat and mass
transport. Explain the analogy between friction factor and j-factors for heat and mass
transfer. Interchangeably employ heat and mass transfer correlations to obtain necessary
parameters.
11. Explain basic mass transfer concepts such as mass transfer rate, molar fluxes NA and JA,
mass transfer resistance, mass transfer driving forces, molecular diffusivity and eddy
diffusivity, mass transfer coefficients (individual and overall), local equilibrium, and
dimensionless numbers used in mass transfer.
12. Explain the basis for the mechanism of molecular diffusion. Apply the general diffusion
equation to solve problems such as diffusion in gases, liquids and solids including
equimolar counter-diffusion, diffusion plus convection, and diffusion through stagnant
species for simple geometries. Prediction of diffusivity for gases and liquids.
13. Explain the basis for the mechanism of mass transfer via natural and forced convection.
Estimate mass transfer coefficients from correlation equations and solve convective mass
transfer problems.
14. Apply the available correlation equations to solve steady-state mass transfer problems for
simple geometries.
15. Explain the basic concepts (such as equilibrium diagram, operating line, individual and
overall driving forces, HTU, NTU) as they apply in the unit operations of gas absorption
and stripping. Apply these concepts to solve mass transfer problems involving gas
absorption or stripping with dilute and concentrated solutions.
16. Explain basic concentration boundary layer concepts with reference to thermal boundary
layer concepts. Solve basic concentration boundary problems involving local and overall
mass transfer.
17. Apply available methods to solve unsteady state mass transfer problems.
18. Solve problems involving the diffusion of gases in a single capillary tube and in porous
media.
19. Explain the basic concepts involved in drying operations such as equilibrium and free
moisture content, drying rate, and drying regimes. Construct drying-rate curves from
experimental data, calculate drying times, and predict the effect of changing drying
process variables.
CHEN 3650
Committee: Ashurst, Placek, Josephson, Wang,
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Describe and classify models of low and intermediate complexity according to their
properties. These classifications include type of model (linear/nonlinear, steady
state/unsteady state, lumped parameter/distributed parameter), solution method,
constituent equations and boundary/initial conditions.
2. Formulate mathematical models based on balances for conserved quantities and given or
inferred physical phenomena that can be used to predict or explain the behavior of a
simple chemical engineering operation or process. Example operations and processes
include reactors, heat exchangers, fluid flow, tanks in series or parallel, heat conduction
and convection.
3. Identify, explain and apply appropriate analytical or numerical methods (algebraic
equations, differential equations, partial differential equations, iterative equations, Euler
method, Runga-Kutta 4th order method, Newton-Raphson iteration) to solve common
classes of engineering models.
4. Identify and formulate state-space (vector/matrix) and frequency-space representations
for models of low complexity.
5. Apply Laplace transform methods to solve differential equation models in terms of
transfer functions for low complexity chemical engineering systems.
6. Linearize nonlinear models using first order Taylor series expansion.
7. Employ deviation variables where appropriate.
8. Map the stability of linear models using eigenvalue methods.
9. Critically evaluate a model and its solution including issues such as accuracy, validity of
assumptions, adequacy of description of phenomena, significance and limitations.
10. Prepare a technical report describing an engineering model, solution methodology and
model predictions including a critical evaluation.
CHEN 3660
Committee: Gupta, Placek, Eden
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Explain the following equilibrium concepts: K value, relative volatility, equilibrium,
azeotrope, DePriester (K) chart, bubble point and dew point, Gibb’s phase rule, lever-arm
rule.
2. Identify the state of a system, the composition of its phases, the temperature dependences
(bubble point, dew point, superheat temperature) using binary equilibrium diagrams (x-y,
T-x-y, H-x-y).
3. Calculate the bubble point and dew point of multicomponent systems using K-charts or
appropriate equations.
4. Derive and plot the operating line for binary flash distillation on a x-y diagram.
5. Solve binary and multicomponent flash problems using sequential and simultaneous
solution methods as appropriate.
6. Employ the Rachford-Rice equation to determine the solution to multicomponent flash
problems.
7. Sketch and identify the internal features of a distillation column and its external
auxiliaries. Explain how a distillation column functions to separate chemical species.
8. Explain the following single feed distillation column concepts: total and partial
condenser, total and partial reboilers, constant molal overflow, optimum feed stage,
reflux liquid, reboiled vapor, rectification (enriching), stripping, stage efficiencies.
Derive the operating equations for the rectification section, stripping section, and feed
stage and solve binary distillation problems.
9. Calculate feed quality and explain its effect on vapor and liquid flow rates above and
below the feed stage including the cases of superheated and subcooled feeds.
10. Use the McCabe-Thiele method to design and rate distillation columns. Employ stage
efficiency data to determine actual number of stages. Correctly differentiate between
internal stages and equilibrium situations in column externals.
11. Understand the concept of limiting operating conditions including total reflux, minimum
reflux, other pinch conditions.
12. Explain multicomponent distillation concepts such as key and non-key components,
distributing components and optimum feed stage.
13. Explain the general procedure for stage-by-stage analysis of multicomponent distillation.
Solve multicomponent distillation problems for situations where constant relative
volatility can be assumed as well as systems where bubble point and dew point
calculations must be performed on each stage.
14. Explain liquid-liquid extraction concepts including solubility envelope, plait point,
extract, raffinate, solvent, solute, conjugate line, solvent to feed ratio, delta point, and
delta composition.
15. Graphically solve single contact extractions, cross-current extractions and counter-current
extractions employing equilateral and right triangular equilibrium diagrams.
16. Design membrane-based separations processes.
CHEN 3700
Committee: Lee, Neuman, Josephson
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Define the reaction rates for homogeneous, heterogeneous, and catalytic reactions.
Explain comparative advantages and disadvantages of various industrial reactors.
Derive and solve mole balance equations for isothermal batch reactor, CSTR, and PFR.
Set up stoichiometric tables for chemical reactions occurring in steady-state flow reactors
and in batch reactors. Use these tables to relate concentration to conversion.
5. Derive the reactor design equations using conversion as the main variable for batch
reactors, CSTRs, and PFRs, and find analytical solutions where feasible.
6. Explain how temperature affects chemical reaction rate and determine the reaction rate
constant and the equilibrium constant as function of temperature from the Arrhenius
equation and experimental data.
7. Use the reactor design equations to calculate the reactor size and conversion for given
rate laws and operational parameters.
8. Explain how the pressure variation affects the performance of the packed-bed reactor.
Calculate the reactor size and conversion employing the Ergun equation to describe the
pressure variation.
9. Analyze experimental rate data and determine rate laws by graphical, analytical, and
numerical methods.
10. Explain how the multiple reactions are incorporated into reactor calculations, and
optimize reactor design/operation with regard to yield and selectivity.
11. Derive energy balance equations for steady-state reactors and batch reactor, and couple
them with mole balances, rate laws, and stoichiometric relationships in order to analyze
and design non-isothermal reactors.
12. Explain the nature of catalytic reactions with regard to the multiple steps of mass transfer
and surface reaction. Explain the concept of the rate limiting step.
13. Explain and apply the Levenspiel plot comparing the performance of multiple CSTRs and
a PFR.
14. Explain the characteristics of enzymatic reactions and how they differ from general
catalytic reactions.
CHEN 3820
Committee: Josephson, Mills, Chambers
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Work in teams to conduct experiments in fluid dynamics and energy transport.
2. Analyze data from experiments and develop conclusions supported by the data.
3. Prepare laboratory reports (technical reports) that clearly convey pertinent background
information, procedures, results, discussion and conclusions adhering to departmental
formats.
4. Prepare and deliver an oral presentation that includes pertinent background information,
procedures, results, discussion and conclusions.
5. Identify and describe and be familiar with the proper use of general laboratory equipment
(process measurement devices) such as thermocouples, flow meters, balances, pressure
gauges, etc.
6. Identify and describe and be familiar with the proper use of process hardware such as
pipes, fittings, valves, rupture disks, pumps, etc.
7. Apply statistical methods and error analysis techniques to estimate the uncertainty in
experimental results.
8. Apply safe laboratory practices by adhering to Auburn University “safe work guidelines”
(SWG), adhering to specific laboratory/course “standard operating procedures” (SOP),
and adhering to “personal protection equipment policies.” (PPE)
CHEN 4170
Committee: Wang, Ashurst, Mills
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Derive first principles dynamic models for a given system with low to intermediate
complexity, and derive the transfer function based on the ODEs. Identify the
manipulated variables, controlled variables, and disturbance variables for the system.
Develop a block diagram for the system under consideration.
2. Distinguish feedback and feed forward controllers; describe their advantages and
disadvantages; classify the type of a given control system (i.e., feedback, feed forward or
combined); describe basic properties of ratio control and cascade control.
3. Analyze the properties of a dynamic system based on its transfer function (such as
stability, steady-state bias, oscillation) by performing partial fraction expansion to
compute the output response for systems with different, repeated and conjugate roots.
Construct the Bode plot of a given system.
4. Convert a given transfer function between its standard form, pole/zero form and
gain/time constant form. Predict and analyze the system step response based on its poles,
zeros and steady-state gain.
5. Approximate a higher-order system using a first-order-plus-time-delay model; estimate
the model parameter (i.e. delay time, time constant and steady state gain) based on the
system’s step-response.
6. State the generic transfer functions of different components in a control loop (i.e.,
actuator, sensor, transducer, controller, process) and simplify them appropriately for a
given system.
7. State the transfer function of different control modes (i.e., proportional, integral and
derivative) and describe their basic properties.
8. Choose among different types of actuator (air-to-open vs. air-to-close), different types of
controllers (reverse vs. direct) for a given system based on safety and stability
considerations.
9. Derive closed loop transfer functions based on a given block diagram. Analyze closedloop system behavior and determine the range of stability using Routh arrays.
10. Design an optimal controller for a given system (including selecting desired closed-loop
performance, performing controller tuning, and validating the designed control system
using Matlab Simulink).
11. Prepare a technical report that summarizes the optimally designed control process.
CHEN 4450
Committee: Chambers, Eden, Neuman
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Employ cost charts, historical data and cost indices to estimate and update equipment
and plant costs.
2. Determine fixed, working, and total capital investment estimates for chemical
manufacturing processes given process flowsheets, equipment specifications, and
material and energy balances.
3. Find and apply resources to estimate raw material, product, labor, utilities, waste
treatment, maintenance, royalties, administration and overhead costs.
4. Determine and use total product manufacturing and operating costs.
5. Explain and apply the concepts of simple and compound interest, present and future
worth to determine the time value of money and incurred debt obligations.
6. Apply straight-line and MACRS depreciation methods with appropriate IRS recovery
periods to determine project depreciation.
7. Calculate cash flow given sales income, operating costs, tax rates and depreciation.
8. Calculate profitability measures including rate of return on investment, net present
worth, payback period, and discounted cash flow rate of return.
9. Apply modern financial analysis software, including ICARUS, to determine project
profitability.
10. Analyze capital investment profitability in relation to corporate savings rate and/or
minimum acceptable rate of return.
11. Apply both classical and modern financial analysis methods to sensitivity analysis of
project profitability determining the effects of changes in raw material costs, plant size,
process yields and royalties on profitability.
12. Assess the effects of global raw materials availability and cost on project profitability
including geopolitical stability and global economics.
13. Apply probit analysis to determine the extent of damage from a causative variable.
14. Locate and apply resources to estimate in-plant toxicological hazards including MSDS,
TLV-TWA, PEL, etc.
15. Determine worker exposures to toxic or corrosive vapors by material balances with
diffusive and convective mass transport.
16. Determine appropriate methods to control potential health hazards by process
modification, enclosures, local and dilution ventilation, wet methods, enhanced
housekeeping and personal protection.
17. Apply source models to the release of liquid and vapor materials from holes or breaks
in pipes, tanks and vessels.
18. Apply neutrally buoyant dispersion and source models to the release of toxins outside
the plant boundary using Pasquill-Gifford models at varying distances, wind speeds,
atmospheric and ground conditions to determine the most probable highest risk
scenarios.
19. Find and apply toxic effect criteria for releases outside the plant boundary including
ERPG, EEGL, Toxic Endpoint, etc.
20. Determine upper and lower flammability limits for process vapor mixtures in air and in
oxygen.
21. Explain and employ flammability diagrams to determine limiting oxygen
concentrations.
22. Analyze explosions by calculating the energy of chemical explosions, the resulting
overpressure and the effect of overpressure on structures at varying distances from the
source in order to reduce potential damage.
23. Determine methods to prevent fires and explosions through process modification,
inerting, controlling static electricity, employing explosion-proof electrical housing and
employing ventilation.
24. Determine the proper relief guidelines and specify appropriate relief type. Determine
sizes for liquid and vapor relief valves, flares and relief system knockout drums.
25. Analyze the venting of process vessels during a fire situation (external to the vessel) by
applying energy balances and source models to the design of vapor relief valves.
26. Complete an on-line AIChE Safety Certificate on Safety in the Process Industries
Module by Dr. Dan Crowl of Michigan Tech including corporate and lab safety,
personal protective equipment, process area safety, DIERS, vent sizing, explosion
experimental systems, and informal and formal safety reviews with study guide and online exam. Students must answer all questions correctly in order to receive a Safety
Certificate.
27. Deliver an effective individual oral presentation with appropriate visual aids explaining
a team oriented profitability assessment project. Prepare an effective technical report
for the project.
28. Write an effective professional resume.
29. Explain professional standards for interviews and other contacts with prospective
employers.
CHEN 4460
Committee: Eden, Ashurst, Wang, Gupta
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Describe the more widely used industrial separation methods and their basis for
separation.
2. Apply heuristics and systematic methods to narrow the search for a near-optimal
sequence of distillation-type separations.
3. Sketch residue curve maps on a ternary phase diagram and define the range of possible
distillation product compositions for a given feed composition.
4. Define the process flow diagram for a heterogeneous azeotropic distillation system.
5. Define the process flow diagram for a pressure swing distillation system.
6. Design and sequence distillation columns for azeotropic distillation of binary mixtures
through analysis of residue curves and distillation boundaries.
7. Perform graphical and algebraic thermal pinch analysis to identify optimal heat recovery
strategies for minimization of external heating and cooling requirements.
8. Synthesize heat exchanger networks that match specified process constraints and
objectives with minimum total annualized cost and choose the best solution from the
generated alternatives.
9. Apply state of the art mathematical programming techniques for solving LP, NLP, MILP
and MINLP problems.
10. Set up a simulation model with the appropriate chemical components, unit specifications
and choice of thermodynamic model and subsequently perform rigorous steady state
simulation, using a commercially available process simulator, of individual process units
such as compressors, flash columns, reactors, absorbers, strippers and distillation
columns for binary as well as multi-component mixtures.
11. Optimize the individual units by identifying design variables available for manipulation
and thereby evaluate and suggest design changes based on base case simulation results.
12. Simulate entire process flowsheets with multiple units and validate design suggestions
obtained by performing energy pinch analysis.
13. Perform plant-wide sensitivity analysis to investigate the impact of certain process
parameters on the overall performance.
CHEN 4470
Committee: Eden, Roberts, Duke
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Formulate and evaluate process and/or product design objectives and constraints for an
open-ended problem.
2. Synthesize a process flowsheet capable of achieving the stated process and/or product
objectives subject to a given set of constraints, by employing traditional as well as novel
synthesis and design strategies.
3. Develop a rigorous steady state computer simulation of the process flowsheet, using
commercially available software packages, capable of representing the process.
4. Evaluate chemical processing equipment alternatives for each processing step and select
the appropriate candidates.
5. Perform equipment design using sizing methods provided by a process simulation
package and perform cost estimation using computer aided tools as well as empirical
correlations.
6. Identify the minimum cost potentials for mass and energy integration with special
emphasis on sustainability, resource conservation, waste minimization and energy
recovery.
7. Generate a broad range of feasible alternative designs capable of achieving the process
and/or product objectives.
8. Perform economic sensitivity analysis in order to identify the primary process parameters
affecting the economics of the process plant.
9. Utilize the understanding of process engineering, economics, environmental concerns as
well as health and safety issues to select the optimum solution to a design problem from
the generated alternatives.
10. Work in a team on solving an open-ended design project and exhibiting proficiency in
developing effective task breakdowns and project plans, time management skills, task
delegation and punctuality.
11. Prepare simulation memos and design reports that are properly organized and
demonstrate concise, clear language, employing appropriately placed and constructed
tables and graphs, with special emphasis on effective communication, neatness and
punctuality.
12. Prepare and deliver a professional oral presentation with appropriate visual aids.
13. Identify and utilize traditional as well as novel sources of information such as the World
Wide Web, databases, technical journals, and news.
CHEN 4860
Committee: Mills, Josephson, Chambers
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Work in teams to plan and conduct experiments involving unit operations such as CSTR
reactor, bioreactor, distillation column, dryer, double effect evaporator, ion exchange
column and packed bed absorption column.
2. Apply statistical Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology to a simple 2-factorial
experiment conceived of, designed and carried out by the student group, and to draw
valid conclusions as to the statistical significance of factors from the output of a DOE
software package.
3. Apply knowledge from prerequisite coursework and current technical literature to
analyze and interpret experimental data from a proper statistical standpoint.
4. Determine parameters such as heat transfer coefficients, energy efficiency, heat loss, rates
of mass transfer in unit operations equipment via the application of material and energy
balance principles.
5. Apply appropriate software, statistical methods, and error analysis techniques to estimate
the uncertainty in experimental results.
6. Prepare laboratory reports (technical reports) that clearly convey pertinent background
information, procedures, results, discussion and conclusions adhering to departmental
formats.
7. Prepare and deliver an oral presentation that includes pertinent background information,
procedures, results, discussion and conclusions.
8. Apply safe laboratory practices by adhering to Auburn University “safe work guidelines”
(SWG), adhering to specific laboratory/course “standard operating procedures” (SOP),
and adhering to “personal protection equipment policies.” (PPE)
9. Pass the Auburn University laboratory safety quiz.
10. Exhibit ethical lab practices in the recording of data, analysis of data, and reporting of
results. Adhere to the chemical engineering honest policy.
CHEN 5110
Committee: Krishnagopalan
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Perform a material balance on a typical wood yard.
2. Perform material and energy balances for a kraft batch digester/blow tank system. Calculate
steam requirements, flash steam production and cold blow black liquor requirements.
3. Calculate the H-factor given digester operating parameter information.
4. Perform material and energy balances for a Kamyr hydraulic digester. Calculate various steam
requirements, black liquor flows and %solids in the liquor to evaporator, flash steam produced
and all process flows around the digester.
5. Perform liquor and dissolved solid balances on vacuum drum washer and calculate washer loss.
6. Perform material balances on a Tomlinson furnace, calculate air supplied by an F.D. fan and the
I.D. fan load.
7. Perform material balances on the causticizing section; use a given causticizing efficiency to
calculate slaker flow, white liquor clarifier underflow and overflow streams.
8. Perform material balances on a lime kiln.
9. Calculate furnish flows in the stock preparation/approach flow section of a paper machine.
10. Perform material balances on a Fourdrinier machine.
11. Calculate single pass retention and overall retention of fillers and fibers.
12. Perform dryer material and energy balances. Calculate drying rates and thermal efficiencies.
CHEN 3090
Committee: Krishnagopalan
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Explain the growth cycle of trees, list their major structural components and list the differences
between softwoods and hardwoods.
2. List the chemical components of wood, their characteristics.
3. Classify the major pulping processes by yield, process input and general use of the pulp.
4. Draw a detailed flow sheet of the kraft pulping process including the chemical recovery section
and the important reactions therein.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the kraft pulping variables, digester operation, concept of Hfactor, direct and indirect heating of digester and the kappa number.
6. Draw and explain a detailed flow sheet of a continuous digester. List the advantages and
disadvantages of continuous over batch digesters.
7. Explain different sulfite pulping processes, different bases used and their limitations. Draw a
detailed flow sheet of the Magnesium bisulfite pulping process.
8. List distinguishing characteristics of mechanical pulps to include their suitability for certain
papers and their limitations.
9. Draw flow sheets for the production of Groundwood (GW), Refiner Mechanical Pulp (RMP) and
Thermomechanical Pulp (TMP).
10. Explain a typical chemi-mechanical pulping process, NSSC pulping process and Green liquor
pulping. Explain the concept of cross recovery.
11. List the nomenclature of bleaching stages and common bleaching sequences used. Explain the
production of the common bleaching chemicals and their limitations for use as bleaching and
brightening chemicals.
12. Draw D(EOP)DED and ODED bleaching sequence flow sheets with general bleaching conditions.
13. Explain various paper properties.
14. Describe the theory of refining/beating. List the refining variables and draw a flow diagram of
stock preparation.
15. Explain flotation and wash deinking and the conditions under which they are used. Draw flow
diagrams of flotation, washing and combined flotation-wash deinking. Explain the purpose of
equipment used.
16. List the major chemical additives added to the stock and/or paper web and explain their
purpose.
17. Draw a typical approach flow diagram for a fine paper machine. Identify various units and their
purpose.
18. Draw a Fourdrinier table wet end. List the names various drainage elements and accessories
and explain how they work. Explain the use of cylinder machines and gap formers.
19. Explain the theory of strength development in paper.
20. Explain lateral and transversal flow presses. Explain the theory of water removal in vented nip
presses.
21. Explain how efficient water removal is achieved during the drying process.
22. Explain calendaring and super calendaring.
23. Describe surface sizing and its effects on paper. List common surface sizing materials.
24. Describe the major aspects of pigmented coatings.
25. List and describe the major types of air pollution equipment used in the paper industry.
Demonstrate an understanding of non-condensable gases, their sources, collection methods and
disposal methods.
26. Explain primary, secondary and tertiary effluent treatment methods. Demonstrate an
understanding of aerated lagoons and activated sludge treatments.
CHEN 4100
Committee: Krishnagopalan
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Work in teams to plan and conducts experiment involving pulp and paper manufacturing
processes.
2. Identify fibers using optical microscope and fiber staining techniques.
3. Measure the freeness and consistency of pulp samples.
4. Perform kraft cooks. Identify the major cooking variables and the effect of these variables on
pulp yield and kappa number.
5. Perform kappa number tests and estimate pulp yields from typical Kraft cooks.
6. Perform a three stage bleaching sequence. Measure pulp brightness and viscosity. Identify the
major bleaching variables and the effect of these variables on pulp brightness and viscosity.
7. Perform beater runs and develop a beater curve.
8. Make Tappi standard handsheets from pulp beaten to different freeness levels.
9. Measure following paper properties: basis weight, caliper, burst index, tensile index, tear index,
air permeability, brightness and opacity.
10. Develop freeness vs. property curves.
11. Make Tappi standard handsheets with different levels of filler addition and retention aids.
Calculate single pass filler retention for different cases. Identify the effect of filler levels and
retention aids on the paper properties.
12. Prepare laboratory reports that clearly convey background information, experimental
procedure, results, discussion of results and conclusions according to the report format.
13. Apply safety laboratory practices by adhering to safe work guidelines, adhering to specific lab
operating procedures and adhering to personal protection policies.
14. Maintain a lab notebook and record data according to given guidelines.
CHEN 4880
Committee: Krishnagopalan
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Work in teams to plan and conducts experiment involving pulp and paper manufacturing
processes.
2. Prepare a project proposal containing background information, problem approach, experimental
planning and a time line.
3. Prepare and deliver a short oral presentation of the project proposal.
4. Conduct experiments as a group according to an approved experimental plan.
5. Maintain a lab notebook and record data according to given guidelines.
6. Prepare a written project progress report.
7. Prepare a written project report that clearly conveys background information, experimental
procedures, results, discussion of results and conclusions in accordance with a given report
format.
8. Apply safety laboratory practices by adhering to safe work guidelines, adhering to specific lab
operating procedures and adhering to personal protection policies.
9. Prepare and deliver an oral group presentation that includes project objectives, background
information, procedures, results, discussion of results and conclusions.