B5187 - BIOPLASTICHE E BIOPRODOTTI

Learning outcomes

The student will be aware of the advantages and main issues of the use of biomass for the production of platform chemicals for the chemical industry and biopolymers for the materials industry. She/he will know the main platform chemicals and the main bioplastics on the market, and the synthetic strategies to obtain them. The student will also acquire knowledge on the different generations of biomass: first-generation or food crops, second-generation or waste biomass/non-edible crops, and third-generation or micro and macroalgae.

Course contents

1) Characteristics and chemical composition of first-, second-, and third-generation biomass

2) Pre-treatments for the valorization of second-generation biomass

3) Solvents and principles of sustainable chemistry for biomass valorization

4) Synthesis and characteristics of the main platform compounds from renewable sources: ethanol, lactic acid, furans

5) Synthesis and characteristics of the main biopolymers and principles of biodegradability in the environment

6) Microalgae and technologies for their valorization

7) Laboratory experiences aimed at learning techniques for the production of biofuels, biopolymers, and platform compounds

8) Visits to companies that deal with the production of biofuels, biopolymers, and platform compounds

Readings/Bibliography

Biomass Valorization - di Davide Ravelli e Chiara Samori
Wiley-VCH, 2021

Scientific papers and review

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons supported by Powerpoint presentations

Articles and reviews

Vistis to companies operating in the biorefinery/bioenergy field

Laboratory activities: Given the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance at this training activity requires all students to complete Modules 1 and 2 via e-learning and participate in Module 3, which is a specific training course on health and safety in the workplace. Information on the dates and methods of attendance for Module 3 can be found in the dedicated section of the program website.

Assessment methods

The final grade consists of a written exam and an evaluation of the laboratory reports.

The written exam consists of 6 open-ended questions on the topics covered in both modules. Familiarity with the graphical representation of organic molecules is also required.

Each answer is scored +5 if complete, detailed, and revised, with no inaccuracies or errors; +4 if complete, detailed, and without inaccuracies/errors; +3 if partially complete (>70%), with some inaccuracies; +2 if there are inaccuracies/errors and the answer is incomplete (50-70%); +1 if there are inaccuracies/errors and the answer is incomplete (<50%); 0 if incorrect or missing.

The maximum score achievable for all correct and complete answers is therefore 30 cum laude. The exam is considered passed with a minimum score of 18/30.

Students have 2 hours for the written exam. The use of support materials such as textbooks, notes, and computer media is not permitted during the exam. Calculators are permitted.

The evaluation of laboratory reports, submitted at least one week before the exam date, is additional to the written exam grade (maximum + 3 points) and does not count toward a passing grade.

Teaching tools

Powerpoint presentations

Scientific papers and reviews

Laboratory activities

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Office hours

See the website of Chiara Samorì