Course content

Bioenergy is seen as an important component in the future sustainable energy system, which itself requires knowledge and understandings for sustainable utilisations of biomass fuels. The course provides in-depth knowledge of fuel characterisation, treatement and conversion technologies, environmental consequences, and resource utilisations related to bioenergy. Moreover, the course gives insight into different bioenergy systems, including bioheat, biopower, biofuel and biogas, and their combinations, with consideration of process integration for heat and material recovery. For biomass conversion technologies, emphasis will be placed on the thermochemcial approaches, which include combustion, gasification and pyrolysis. The biological approaches, bioethanol and biogas productions, are also be treated in the course, but to a lesser extent. System design and process simulation is an important part of the course.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:The course provides the student with knowledge about:- Environmental aspects of bioenergy- Biomass types and characteristics for energy application- Fuel characterisation - Biomass fuels production, treatment and storage- Thermochemical conversion of biomass for energy application- Biochemical conversion of biomass for energy application- Bioenergy systems and process integration- Techno-economic analysis for bioenergy systems.Skills:The course should enable the students to:- Determine important fuel properties of biomass- Perform basic engineering calculations (mass and heat balances) for biomass based energy systems- Identify and design suitable systems and technologies for bioenergy establishments- Analyze and present knowledge in synthesis of bioenergy systems as whole from supply to end users, considering technological, environmental, economic and legislative aspects. General competence:After completion of the course the students should gain general competence in :- Analysis of bioenergy systems and their potential in future energy supply.- Working with cross-cutting problems related to bioenergy- Planning processes linked to the establishment of bioenergy facilities.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars and problem solving activities. The course contains compulsory seminars and compulsory exercises. The course reading is mandatory. The course is taught in English. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments.

Compulsory assignments

• Project/groupwork
• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Knowledge equivalent to three years of study in technological or natural science subjects is recommended. Basic knowledge in chemistry and thermodynamics is recommended.

Course materials

To be announced.