Palm oil and oleochemicals *

Code

CHEE4060

School

Chemical & Environmental Engineering

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring Malaysia

Summary

This module provides a comprehensive overview of various aspects related to palm oil, encompassing palm oil milling, quality assessment, and downstream applications. The key topics covered include an introduction to the palm and oil industry, detailed exploration of palm oil milling processes and associated losses, examination of palm oil quality, and discussions on refining and fractionation techniques. The module delves into the diverse applications of palm oil, both in the food industry and oleochemical manufacturing. Additionally, it addresses environmental considerations by exploring palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment methods, including conventional treatment operations, advancements in POME treatment, and the utilization of biogas plants. The module concludes with a focus on biomass management and the promotion of sustainable palm oil practices, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the palm oil industry and its broader implications.

Target Students

Available only to students registered at Malaysia Campus on courses in Chemical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with Environmental Engineering.

Classes

• One 1-hour tutorial each week for 12 weeks
• One 2-hour lecture each week for 12 weeks

Assessment

• 30% Coursework: Coursework
• 70% Exam (2-hour): Final examination

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Module Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge in palm oil milling processes by comprehending raw materials, processing techniques, technical control measures, quality management practices, and applications of palm oil products.

2. Apply fundamental knowledge to explore and assess new and emerging technologies in palm oil and oleochemicals production, demonstrating the ability to analyse and evaluate advancements in the field.

3. Understand and critically evaluate palm oil mill effluent treatment and biogas technology, recognizing their roles in developing and promoting a sustainable palm oil industry.

UK PO
A2.4.1 - Understand and be able to apply methods to analyse the characteristics and performance of a range of typical mixing, separation, and similar processing steps for fluids, particulates and multi-phases.
A2.6.1.4 - Legislative Compliance – there is a sound understanding of, and compliance with, applicable SH&E legislation.
A2.7.1.1 - how sustainability, economics, health and safety and professionalism are informed by and influence the ethical reasoning and behaviour of the professional engineer.
A5.2.2 - Have developed a range of effective communication skills including written reports and presentations.
A6.0.4 - Have some understanding of the limits of available technology and of the potential of new and emerging technology.
A6.0.5 - Have a broader understanding of palm oil milling and palm oil mill effluent treatment technology.
A6.2 - Cover Level F ‘Breadth’ subjects in the area of palm oil milling and palm oil mill effluent treatment.

EAC PO
PO2: Problem Analysis - Identify, formulate, research literature and analyze complex engineering problems reaching substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, natural sciences and chemical engineering sciences with holistic considerations for sustainable development (WK1 to WK4)
PO3: Design/Development of Solutions - Design creative solutions for complex engineering problems and design chemical engineering systems, components or processes to meet identified needs with appropriate consideration for public health and safety, whole-life cost, net zero carbon as well as resource, cultural, societal, and environmental consirations as required (WK5);
PO11: Life Long Learning - Recognise the need for, and have the preparation and ability for i) independent and life-long learning ii) adaptability to new and emerging technologies and iii) critical thinking in the broadest context of technological change (WK8).

Conveners

• Dr Sze Pheng Ong
• Dr Yi Jing Chan