Green Chemical Process Engineering
Main Event ERN 2023 -UMU-Workshop-“Green Chemical Process Engineering”
The planned activities are as follows:
• Microalga Safari: Green adventure in the microscopic world
Main activities:
Microalgae reactor exhibition with luminaire: Participants will be able to explore a functioning microalgae reactor, with special lighting that will allow to see how microalgae grow and develop. It will explain how these tiny single-celled organisms can convert sunlight into energy and capture CO2 from the air.
Observation of microalgae cells under a microscope: Using a glass bottle reactor, the “explorers” can extract a sample of microalgae and observe it through a microscope. This activity will allow them to appreciate the beauty and complexity of microalgae cells and understand their role in photosynthesis and the energy production process.
Flow meter air velocity measurement: Children and their parents can experiment with a glass flow meter and understand how air velocity is measured. It will explain why it is important to control the air flow in the microalgae reactor diffusers for cells to grow optimally and efficiently.
Educational posters: Informative posters will be displayed explaining the cycle of CO2 uptake by microalgae and how these small wonders can contribute to the sustainability of the planet. Other posters will address the design of bioreactors and how microalgae biomass can be used as fertilizer and biofuels, showing its potential as green alternatives.
With “Microalga Safari: Green adventure in the microscopic world”, children and their parents will be given an exciting and educational experience about the fascinating world of microalgae and its potential to contribute to the care of the environment. It will promote scientific curiosity and raise awareness of the importance of developing sustainable and planet-friendly technologies.
• ElectricWater Wonders: An electrifying journey to water purification
Main activities:
Microbial fuel cells in action: Participants will be able to see microbial fuel cells up close. Through a magical process, the bacteria will feed on the organic matter in the simulated wastewater (to prevent odors and prevent possible bacterial problems with the wastewater), releasing electrons that will be collected to produce electricity. This live demonstration will show how Green Chemistry can turn waste into valuable and sustainable resources.
Real-time voltage recording: A computer-connected voltage record will allow children and their parents to see in real time the impressive work that microbial batteries are doing. To prove its veracity, we will measure a typical 1.5 V battery, demonstrating how the equipment shows the real voltage, highlighting the positive impact that these small batteries can have in the real world.
Interaction with experts: We, as subject matter experts, will be on hand to explain the process behind microbial fuel cells and answer children’s curious questions. Scientific curiosity will be fostered and children will be inspired to consider how science and technology can work together to address environmental challenges.
Poster and didactic schemes: A series of colorful posters and didactic schemes will be available to illustrate and explain in a clear and accessible way the operation of microbial fuel cells. The schematics will explain how organic matter is converted into electricity and how this process contributes to purifying waste water. There will also be graphic documents explaining the design of these batteries, the different parts that make up the system and the importance of studying these materials.
Promoting environmental awareness: During the event, the importance of sustainability and environmental care will be highlighted. It will emphasize how these technologies can help reduce pollution and produce renewable energy, protecting our precious resource, water.
“ElectricWater Wonders: An electrifying journey to water purification” offers an exciting interactive learning experience, where children and their parents can discover the power of green chemistry and sustainable technology while exploring the fascinating world of wastewater. Participants will discover how science and technology can work together to create a more sustainable and clean future.
Coordination: Francisco José Hernández Fernández, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Murcia.
Day and time: 29 September, 18-22 hours.
Location: Patio del Campus de la Merced, University of Murcia.