Contaminated Land Management

Code

CHEE4026

School

Chemical and Environmental Engineering

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

This module develops a risk-based framework for the assessment of contaminated land based on the characterisation and modelling of contaminant sources, pathways and receptors. Case studies are used to illustrate the application of this approach, the typical uncertainties and the management of risk. A range of physical, biological, chemical and thermal in-situ and ex-situ remediation technologies are covered. The application of these technologies is demonstrated by case studies including design studies.

Target Students

Students registered in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering only.

Assessment

• 100% Coursework 1: Design Report (4,000 words)

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

A2 Chemical Engineering Principles:

A2.4.5 be able to apply their knowledge of chemical engineering principles to complex and/or novel unit operations, process equipment, and substances with complex behaviour

The module includes understanding of a range of physical, thermal and chemical process techniques for contaminated soil remediation. The geology of the soil and the composition of the contamination are highly variable and lead to complex behaviours of these heterogeneous feedstocks.

A2.4.6 be able to apply their knowledge of these principles to complex problems with conflicting requirements.

The students consider the above techniques in a technology screening exercise and develop design concepts (with flow sheets) for three different solutions to the problems. Basic design of the unit operations is carried out (sizing, capital cost estimates).

A2.7.6 be able to apply principles of sustainability, economics and ethics to novel and complex situations with conflicting requirements

In developing a risk-based contaminated land strategy (assessed via coursework report), sustainability, economic and ethical aspects may be competing and the students must justify decisions within this context. Modern risk-based contaminated land management has evolved within a social and sustainability context alongside technical and economic considerations. This is taught by explaining the historical, legal and social context and continually referring to social and sustainability considerations when evaluating risk and appraising options. Sustainability of proposed solutions is specifically addressed in the coursework.

A3 Chemical Engineering Practice:

A3.2.13 Have a broad knowledge and critical awareness of developments at the forefront of chemical engineering. This is assessed by asking the students to propose three engineering solutions to a problem and ranking them (with qualification and quantification) by cost, time and sustainability (social factors are also discussed throughout the module and will be implicit in the selection).

A4.2.9 Be able to work with information that may be incomplete or uncertain, quantify the effect of this on the design and, where appropriate, use theory or experimental research to mitigate deficiencies.

Contaminated land management inherently requires dealing with large degrees of uncertainty. A major emphasis of the module is how to deal with this, and this is required in the coursework.

A4 Chemical Engineering Design:

A4.2.8 Have a comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and an ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.

Delivered through the coursework exercise.

A4.2.11.4 Evaluation of financial and other risks.

Delivered through the coursework exercise.

Conveners

• Dr Eleanor Binner