This course provides an introduction to fundamental principles
that govern the design and analysis of chemical processes.
The conversion of mass and energy serves as the basis for
the analysis of steady-state and transient behavior of reactive
and non-reactive systems. Specific topics covered include
a review of basic thermodynamics, behavior of ideal and real
gases, phase equilibria, and an application of these principles
to the concept of industrial ecology.
CAPACITOR
PROJECT
First-year students in EGR 260, Mass and Energy Balances,
apply their newly acquired skills tracking material and energy
flows in the production of motor-run capacitors for air conditioning
applications as part of an environmental impact analysis called
Life-cycle Assessment (LCA). Students first explore what a
capacitor is and how it works in many different applications—from
cell phones to washing machines—then conduct library
research including patents, peer-reviewed journal articles,
and original sources.
Students
trace every step in the production process, beginning with
extraction of raw materials such as oil and zinc, following
their transportation and processing around the globe, culminating
in an assembly plant in Mexico prior to distribution to consumers
and ultimate disposal. At each stage, students quantitatively
estimate material and energy inputs and environmental impacts
in terms of land use, toxic emissions to air and water, and
greenhouse gas emissions.
The
students' research will be incorporated in an art installation
opening in May 2004 at MassMoCA,
the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, as part of a
collaboration with the cyberfeminist artist collective subRosa
and Smith's women's studies course on youth culture and gender.
