GCH5120 · Green chemical synthesis and applications

Overview

This unit will provide you with the knowledge, tools and skills to understand synthetic methods that adhere to Green Chemistry principles. Case studies will look at applications of selected chemicals and polymers, with consideration of life cycle and circular economy factors. Topics covered include will include metrics for green synthesis; solvent selection and solvent free reactions; catalysis (including heterogeneous, homogenous and bio catalysis); energy options for driving chemical reactions (microwave, mechanochemistry, ultrasound, electrochemical); chemical transformations from renewable primary feedstock chemicals and feedstock options; green polymer synthesis including biopolymers; continuous flow systems for chemical synthesis; case studies from academia and industry demonstrating innovation in the chemical industry. During your studies you will apply your learning to a series of experiential activities that address and demonstrate novel applications of green synthesis in industry. The activities include problem solving, discussion of case studies and scenarios from the research literature and industry.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate critical understanding of organic and inorganic synthesis applying green chemistry principles for small molecule, organic/inorganic and polymer synthesis;
2. Design green chemical synthetic pathways, including reaction conditions, process options, product/co-product formation and mechanisms, to achieve more efficient manufacturing of chemicals and polymers;
3. Critique the various options and potential of biomass derived chemical feedstocks for the synthesis of fine chemicals, polymers and commodity chemicals;
4. Apply green chemistry metrics, life cycle assessment and supply chain considerations in assessing the greenness of chemical reactions and how these can apply to chemical manufacturing processes;
5. Describe how catalysts can be used heterogeneously and homogeneously, biological and asymmetric catalysts and the importance of catalysis in green chemical synthesis and industrial production.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. The unit will have a minimum of three hours of scheduled activities per week, which include a two-hour lecture with discussion and a one-hour workshop, to be offered face-to-face and/or with hybrid learning options. Formal contact will involve combination of teacher-directed learning, problem solving, case study evaluations, supplemented with further directed reading, videos, problem solving, group work and associated peer-directed learning and on-line engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.