Prerequisite/Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module builds on knowledge gained in Biological production, Biomolecules and Biochemistry I or similar

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

In the project, the students work with individually chosen biomasses which should be analyzed with respect to main composition. The biomass can be pretreated or, if possible, already pretreated by others and enzymes should be applied for conversion of the biomass into a sugar stream. This can be used for production of food, feed, energy, biochemicals and commodities.

The analyses are carried out both from technological and sustainable considerations. Since plant biomass constitute the major resource for biological production, an introduction to algal, plant cells and plant cell walls will also be given. Competences are given within laboratory based work and writing of a report based on experimental data.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed the module can

• Present an overview of plant or algae biomass as a resource
• Understand the basic structure of plants or algae and their cell walls
• Give an overview of plant or algae biomass conversion, including the need for pretreatment 

Skills

• Carry out simple analyses of plant or algae biomass with respect to its composition of main components (e.g. cellulose, hemi-cellulose, lignin etc.)
• Apply enzymes to degrade plant or algae biomass
• Be able to calculate the hydrolysis efficiency
• Be able to calculate theoretical yield of a biological production (e.g. conversion of the biomass into bioethanol) 

Competences

• Define a biorefinery concept
• Apply sustainability criteria in the development of biorefinery concepts
• Estimate the environmental impact
• Understand the basis of carrying out experimental work 

Type of instruction

Lectures and project work including laboratory work

Extent and expected workload

450 hours

Exam

Exams

Name of exam	Biomass Conversion
Type of exam	Oral exam based on a project
ECTS	15
Assessment	7-point grading scale
Type of grading	External examination
Criteria of assessment	As stated in the Joint Programme Regulations