Program Overview

Introduction to Biochemical Engineering Processing and Design (BENG0001)

Key Information

The module is part of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, specifically the Biochemical Engineering department, with a credit value of 15. There are no restrictions for this module.

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

The module provides an engineering foundation in the principles of engineering analysis and design, focusing on the relationships between material properties and behavior in a (bio)process environment. Key concepts covered are essential for understanding the performance of processes for the manufacture of biologically-based products and the specification and design of overall process sequences.

Upon completion of the course, a student should be able to:

• Mathematically analyse and interpret given experimental data analysis of a fluid in a viscometer and provide a physical explanation of the results obtained.
• Design a generic pipe network based on specifications and constraints and verify the assumptions made and quantify the pump requirements.
• Analyse and design a complete chromatography system based on fluid flow specifications.
• Calculate the power input required for agitation in a stirred-tank fermenter under a range of operating conditions.
• Define conditions for the successful scale-up or scale-down of a fermentation process for different biological systems.
• Characterise the different stages of a fermentation process and execute simple mass and energy balances.
• Perform simple mass balances around key unit operations.
• Analyse the major mechanism of chromatographic separation used at industrial scale.

Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

The intended teaching term is Term 2, and the module is classified as Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 4).

Teaching and Assessment

The mode of study is in-person. Methods of assessment include:

• 50% Exam
• 20% In-class activity
• 20% Coursework
• 10% Other form of assessment The mark scheme is based on numeric marks.

Other Information

The number of students on the module in the previous year was 18, and the module leader is Dr. Marco Paulo Cardoso Marques.