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The BSc in Chemical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Chemical, Biochemical, Biomolecular, and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
The field of chemical engineering deals with the science and engineering of chemical reactions and separation processes. It applies physical and life sciences together with engineering and economic principles to produce, transform, transport, and properly use chemicals, materials and energy.
A BSc in Chemical Engineering program educates engineers to design, develop, and operate chemical processes by which chemicals, petroleum products, food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods can be produced economically and safely. The program incorporates extensive laboratory work and computer process simulation to reinforce the principles and concepts used in the classroom.
Students graduating with a BSc in Chemical Engineering will attain the following:
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An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. |
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An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors. |
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An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences. |
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An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts. |
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An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives. |
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An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions. |
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An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies. |
The Chemical Engineering Program laboratories include:
The Chemical Engineering program is supported by a student chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineering (AIChE). The aim of the chapter is to promote chemical engineering and establish a bridge between the students and the professional community at large. AIChE holds regular meetings for its members and organizes social and technical activities open to all students.
Chemical Engineers work in an industry, where physical transformation of matter takes place. Following is a list of industries they work;
Most Chemical Engineers work in offices, laboratories, or industrial plants. Others may spend time outdoors at construction sites and oil and gas exploration and production sites, where they monitor or direct operations or solve onsite problems. Not all chemical engineers wear hard hats, nor do they work solely in chemical plants. Although the specific responsibilities of Chemical Engineers vary among industries — and even within companies. Typical functions include:
Course Description of Chemical Engineering
CHEG 205 Principles of Chemical Engineering (3-0-3)
Co-requisites: PHYS 121; CHEM 116
Basic principles and calculations in chemical engineering. Processes and process variables. Introduction to the principles of conservation of mass and energy. Material and energy balances. Applications to chemical processing systems. Single and multi-phase systems. Balances on nonreactive and reactive processes.
CHEG 210 Introduction to Biochemical Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 205
Chemical engineers working in the process industries are making increased use of biological systems for production and environmental management. To optimize these processes, chemical engineers need to understand the fundamentals of biological processes and their applications. This course is designed to teach chemical engineers key modelling aspects associated with biochemical processes such as enzymatic reaction kinetics, cell growth models, chemostat, etc. Moreover, key principles of biomolecular sciences such as the basic structure and function of biomolecules/biomacromolecules, immobilized enzyme, cellular functions and genetic engineering will be covered.
CHEG 213 Experimental Design (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: MATH 231
This course would develop the ability to design experiments, analyze and interpret data to make decisions by applying statistical tools. The course starts with description of random variables and probability distributions. The use of statistical decision-making tools, empirical models to optimize engineering systems are covered prior to application of designed experimentation. Finally application of statistical process control in manufacturing process to ensure product quality.
CHEG 230 Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics I (3-0-3)
Prerequisites: CHEG 205
Co-requisites: PHYS 122
Fundamentals of classical thermodynamics for application to chemical engineering processes and systems. Application of first and second laws to the analysis of thermodynamic cycles and processes; volumetric and thermodynamic properties of liquids and gases; heat effects.
CHEG 232 Fluid Mechanics (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 205
The course aims to develop a working knowledge of fluid mechanics through the theories, applications and experiments of transport processes and fluid flows in chemical engineering science. The course focuses on the fundamentals of macroscopic fluid phenomena and their practical applications in chemical engineering systems.
CHEG 301 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Its Applications in Chemical Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 213, CHEG 312
This course provides an overview of the general artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches and techniques used to solve chemical engineering problems. The course covers the concepts of the three main techniques of machine learning: supervised learning, unsupervised learning and reinforcement learning, and their applications in chemical engineering.
CHEG 312 Numerical Methods for Chemical Engineers (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: MATH 206; ENGR 113
This course gives an extensive and broad introduction to the numerical solution of problems that a chemical engineer is most likely to encounter. The emphasis is to develop skills in logical thinking through designing mathematical and numerical solutions to chemical engineering problems. Materials to be covered include but not limited to: Systems of linear and non-linear algebraic equations; numerical integration; numerical solution of ODEs; and finite differences to solve elliptic and parabolic PDEs.
CHEG 324 Mass Transfer (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 335
The fundamentals of separation processes of interest to the chemical industry are covered. The principles of diffusion and convective mass transfer in gas, liquid, and solids are reviewed. The general mass and energy balances are established for continuous-contact and equilibrium-staged processes. The applications of these fundamentals and the concepts of vapor-liquid to the unit operations of absorption are discussed.
CHEG 325 Fundamentals of Nanotechnology (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: PHYS 122
Introduction to the fundamental principles which govern materials, products and process design in nanotechnology and nanoengineering, covering applications which include chemical, mechanical, environmental, electronics, and biological fields.
CHEG 332 Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics II (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230
Fundamentals of classical thermodynamics for application to chemical engineering processes and systems. Thermodynamic solution theory; multiphase equilibria of ideal and non-ideal systems, chemical reaction equilibria and topics in phase equilibria.
CHEG 335 Heat Transfer (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230; CHEG 232
Theory and applications of thermal energy transport: conduction, convection and radiation. Fundamentals of microscopic phenomena and application to macroscopic systems. Relevant aspects of computer-aided process simulation.
CHEG 340 Chemical Extraction of Metals (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230
The course relates to the field of chemical extractive metallurgy. Topics will include, thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical metallurgical processes, theoretical and practical aspects of the extraction processes for common metals with emphasis on iron/steel, and aluminum. The course takes most of its examples from the extraction of iron/steel and aluminum, but aspects of other metals, notably, copper, gold, lead and zinc, are also considered.
CHEG 341 Electrochemical Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisites: CHEG 230
This course presents the basic concepts of electrochemistry science as well as an overview of electrochemical engineering applications focusing on renewable energy (fuel-cells, batteries, supercapacitors) and industrial procedures (electrosynthesis).
CHEG 350 Materials Science & Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 116; PHYS 122
Introduction to materials science and engineering. Metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, and composites; inter-atomic bonding, crystal structure and defects; diffusion, nucleation and microstructure; phase diagrams and phase transformations; mechanical properties; material failure; corrosion and degradation.
CHEG 360 Introduction to Hydrogen Technologies and Applications (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230; CHEG 232
This course provides the basic knowledge on hydrogen technologies and applications. The aim of the course is to enable the students to apply these learnings in their profession, as well as taking additional specialized courses in this field. The course includes fundamental information about hydrogen properties, an overview of different technologies to produce hydrogen, to store and transport it, depending on the needs, finalizing with hydrogen utilization in different industrial sectors, and in the context of sustainable energy.
CHEG 361 Hydrogen Safety (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230; CHEG 232
This course deals with the principles and practical applications of hydrogen safety in hydrogen production, distribution, and utilization facilities. The aim of this course is to provide an overview of both the theoretical and practical aspects of hydrogen safety including hydrogen production, compression/liquefaction, transport, and storage. The course will incorporate well-developed health and safety as well as legal components and be focused on critical case studies.
CHEG 380 Introduction to Polymer Science and Engineering (2-3-3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 211
Definitions, industry overview, nomenclature, basic organic chemistry of polymers, polymerization, molecular weight and molecular weight distribution. Basic polymer structure and thermo mechanical behaviour and structure property relationship. Mechanical properties, definitions, viscoelasticity, other mechanical properties. Basic rheology and introduction to polymer processing techniques, recycling. Concepts will be reinforced by the laboratory component of the course.
CHEG 381 Polymer Chemistry and Reaction Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 211
This course introduces the chemistry of polymerization and the polymer manufacturing process. It begins with basic concepts about polymers and polymerization and covers each major type of polymerization with relevant kinetics. The qualitative effect of reactor design on polymer manufacture is discussed as well as actual polymer manufacturing processes including those taking place in the UAE.
CHEG 391 Independent Study I (variable course credits from 1 to 3)
Prerequisites: Approval of department and junior standing
This course gives an upper level undergraduate student the opportunity to participate in an individual or group project, study, or research activity under the supervision of a faculty member. A formal report is required.
CHEG 395 Special Topics in Chemical Engineering (from 1 to 3 credits)
Prerequisite: Topic specific
This course mainly deals with new trends in Chemical Engineering and emerging technologies. Course is repeatable if title and content differ.
CHEG 410 Pollution Prevention and Waste Management (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324
This course aims to reorient the chemical engineering students’ outlook to incorporate the society’s interest in environmental quality and sustainability into their engineering decisions and to build stronger environmental ethics. It aims to give chemical engineers the tools to incorporate environmental consequences in decision making in the same way that economic and safety factors are considered.
CHEG 411 Green Chemical Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324
This course deals with the cost-effective design, commercialization and use of chemical processes in ways that minimize pollution at the source and reduce impact on health and the environment. Developing safer environmentally friendly chemicals and processes results in: reduced waste, eliminating costly end-of-pipe treatments, safer products, and reduced use of energy and resources all improving the competitiveness of chemical manufacturers and their customers.
CHEG 412 Process Dynamics & Control (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 443; CHEG 312
Mathematical modeling and analysis of transient systems. Applications of control theory to response of dynamic chemical engineering systems and processes.
CHEG 415 Combustion and Air Pollution Control (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324; CHEG 335
This course presents the fundamentals of air pollution impact on the environment. Topics covered include hydrocarbon fuel energy, the different combustion devices and systems, pollutant emission predictions from chemical equilibrium and ideal flow reactors, design of flues and chimneys, atmospheric dispersion models, air pollution sampling and measurement, and air pollution control methods and equipment. Applications in the petroleum industry are stressed.
CHEG 416 Corrosion Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: Senior Standing
This course presents fundamental material on corrosion and oxidation thermodynamics and electrochemical thermodynamics. The course then describes commonly encountered corrosion environments and discusses typical forms of corrosion encountered in each environment typical to the petroleum industry. Methods of corrosion control are then described, and the course concludes with a description of important corrosion and oxidation monitoring techniques.
CHEG 423 Gas Processing Engineering (2-3-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 332; CHEG 324
An overview of natural gas industry, from wellhead to market place. Process flow diagram of gas plant. Description and design of the major processes for gas compression, dehydration, acid gas removal and tail gas cleanup, sulfur recovery, cryogenic extraction of natural gas liquids (NGL). Process simulation of natural gas processes.
CHEG 424 Petroleum Refining and Processing (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324
Characterization of crude oil. Petroleum products and refinery configuration. Basics on heterogeneous catalysis. Unit operations of petroleum refining including distillation, catalytic cracking, reforming, hydrotreating and hydrocracking, coking and gas treatment. Gasoline components. Refinery products and economics. Manufacture of petrochemical feedstocks from petroleum and petroleum products. Environmental control. Refinery safety measures and handling of hazardous materials. Quality control of products.
CHEG 430 Bioseparation Engineering (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 210
The course provides an insightful overview of the fundamentals of biochemical product recovery and purification. The topics include downstream processing unit operations that are used to isolate and purify biologically-derived chemicals, such as filtration, centrifugation, chromatography, extraction, electrophoresis, crystallization, and cell disruption for intracellular product recovery.
CHEG 432 Food Engineering and Technology (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 210
This course focuses on the basic concepts of food engineering. It provides an overview of food processes, preservation, packaging, food laws, related hazards, and safety topics. The course also covers physical properties of food, food rheology, thermal and no-thermal food processing operations, and recent technologies, such as freeze concentration, osmotic dehydration, and active packaging.
CHEG 443 Reaction Engineering (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 332; CHEM 211
Applications of the fundamentals of thermodynamics, physical chemistry, and organic chemistry to the engineering of reactive processes. Reactor design; acquisition and analysis of rate data; heterogeneous catalysis. Relevant aspects of computer-aided process simulation.
CHEG 460 Introduction to Clean Energy Production (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 335
This course aims to disseminate knowledge on the concept of clean energy, which will encompass thermodynamics aspects and working principles. A special focus will be given to recent advancement and evolution of latest technology in this area. During the course delivery, the impacts from different clean energy technologies on the environment and social economy will be highlighted too. Latest challenges and progress in clean energy adoption will also be discussed.
CHEG 470 Industrial Catalysis (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 230
The course presents basic concepts of catalysis and reviews different categories of catalysts with industrial importance in energy, environment, oil and gas processing as well as in petrochemical and other chemical commodities manufacturing. The core of the course is focused on heterogeneous catalysis and to a lesser extent on homogeneous catalysis. Catalytic materials, their properties and preparation, catalyst characterization and selection, adsorption and surface reaction mechanisms, and catalytic reactor design are covered.
CHEG 472 Water Treatment and Membrane Processes (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324
This course deals with the fundamental principles and practical applications of membrane processes in water treatment facilities. The topics covered in this course are water chemistry, membrane structure and performance, membrane transport, concentration polarization, membrane fouling and fouling characterization in relation to water engineering. Applications of nano-filtration), ultra- filtration, micro- filtration, reverse osmosis, and electro- dialysis membranes in various water treatment plants are covered.
CHEG 485 Separation Processes (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEG 324
This course presents an overview of all industrially relevant separation processes, including equilibrium based separations (distillation, absorption, extraction), rate-controlled separation processes (adsorption, drying, crystallization, membrane separation) and mechanical separations (filtration, sedimentation). The contents would cover fundamentals, mass and energy balances, and sizing of equipment.
CHEG 488 Polymer Properties (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 380
Review and discussion of the properties of polymers with emphasis on structure-property correlations. The principles and practical applications of the main techniques used for characterization of the mechanical, physical, and transport properties will be discussed. Some applications of polymers in relationship to their properties are illustrated.
CHEG 491 Independent Study II (variable course credits from 1 to 3)
Prerequisites: Approval of department and senior standing
This course gives an upper level undergraduate student the opportunity to participate in an individual or group project, study, or research activity under the supervision of a faculty member. A formal report is required.
CHEG 495 Special Topics in Chemical Engineering
Prerequisite: Topic specific
This course mainly deals with new trends in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering and emerging technologies. Course is repeatable if title and content differ.
CHEG 497 Senior Design Project I (2-3-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 213; CHEG 324; Senior Standing
The students learn the design process including problem definition and analysis; process synthesis, process simulation and modeling; safety and environmental protection in design; written and oral communication for design reports. A significant portion of the term work will be devoted to a group design project, culminating in a preliminary design proposal that will be presented to the department.
CHEG 498 Senior Design Project II (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: CHEG 497
Students continue studying the design process including equipment cost estimation, manufacturing cost, and profitability analysis, process optimization, material selection, energy, safety, and environmental considerations. A significant portion of the term work will be devoted to the group design project started in Senior Design Project I, culminating in a final design report that will be presented to the department.