Educational offer - University of Padova

Syllabus

Prerequisites:	No prerequisites. Knowledge of: - thermodynamics: first and second law of thermodynamics, main heat exchange mechanisms, general energy and exergy balance equations, energy and exergetic analysis of energy conversion processes; reference cycles for steam and gas systems (Rankine and Brayton Joule) - energy conversion machines and plants: operating principles, characteristic curves and fields of use of volumetric machines and turbomachinery, Knowledge of operating principles, energy balances relating to plants for the generation of electricity.
Target skills and knowledge:	Deepen and develop the knowledge related to thermoelectric and nuclear plants for the generation of electricity. Acquire basic knowledge related to the gas technique. Learn the basics of hydraulic systems. Learn some advanced techniques for the study and evaluation of energy conversion systems: use of LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) techniques. Learn to write a clear, concise but complete report of the work done during the exercises
Examination methods:	Oral examination on the whole program. During the examination the reports of the three exercises assigned during the course will be also discussed.
Assessment criteria:	Marks based on the examination (85%) and the reports presented (15%). During the oral examination the knowledge acquired will be evaluated by means of open questions and discussion on the relationships. It is possible that a simple numerical exercise is proposed to be performed on the blackboard to demonstrate to be able to apply the concepts learned. The candidate must demonstrate that he / she has also acquired the ability to clearly explain what he /she has been learned, using the appropriate technical language.
Course unit contents:	Resources and energy consumption: historical evolution, concepts of power and energy density, efficiency, data, strategies, perspectives for complex energy systems (4 h) Life Cycle Assessment with applications (solar panels, biodiesel). (18 h) Nuclear plants: basic concepts of nuclear fission, thermal reactors and nuclear plants, overview of fast reactors. Elements of radioactivity. The nuclear fuel cycle (12 h) Environmental impact of energy conversion plants and pollutant control and abatement systems (4 h) Extraction, transport and processing of fossil fuels (4 h). Elements of gas technology: the distribution network, decompression booths for natural gas and turbo-expansion of natural gas; LNG reception facilities and regasification (10 h) Waste-to-energy systems s; examples of plants with related energy balances; economic aspects; systems for pollutant control and abatement. (4 h) The link between water and energy: desalination and demineralization; consumption and water pollution in energy conversion plants (8 h) Distribution of energy in industry by fluids. (8 h) All topics will be studied with attention to the whole life cycle.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods:	Frontal lessons. Some lessons (6 h) are dedicated to the presentation of exercises similar to those assigned to take to the exam. Some lessons (8 h) are carried out in a computer lab and involve the use of the Simapro code The course also includes technical visits to plants in the area (waste incineration plant with heat recovery, first stage gas pressure reduction station of the gas distribution network, water center of the aqueduct network)
Additional notes about suggested reading:	Material for the study is on-line at https://elearning.unipd.it/dii/
Textbooks (and optional supplementary readings)