TEC 5700 - Biofuels Technology (3)

When Offered: Fall, Spring
An examination of evolving biofuel technologies such as biodiesel, alcohol, cellulose products, and methane which are being developed to displace depleting fossil fuels (diesel, gasoline, natural gas, and coal). This course will introduce students to the basic concepts, tools, techniques, and materials needed to assess, design, and construct biofuels technology systems. Coursework will include multimedia presentations, lectures, discussions, films, field trips, homework, guest-speakers, and laboratory activities. Topics include: internal combustion engine technology, biodiesel chemistry and physical properties, combined heat-power systems, materials compatibility, by-products, closed-loop designs, energy balance, life cycle assessment, ASTM specifications, fuel analysis, feedstocks, biofuels and agriculture, biofuels in developing countries, ethanol, cellulosic ethanol, biogas and landfill gas, and eco-industrial models. Content mastery and applied practice at the graduate level is expected.
Lecture two hours, laboratory two hours. [Dual-listed with TEC 4700.]