Green Industrial Engineering for Sustainable Development

Course Introduction: the integrated water cycle, ecosystems, and environment; pollution from domestic and industrial sources; main types of water pollutants. Environmental Microbiology: pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms (heterotrophs, autotrophs, aerobes, anaerobes) and their role in pollution phenomena and wastewater management. Regulatory Framework: legislation on water discharges and wastewater reuse. Waste Characterization: production, composition, and physico-chemical analysis of industrial effluents. Wastewater Treatment: physico-chemical and biological processes. Industrial Wastewater Treatment: specific applications for distilleries, dairy industries, canning industries, sugar production, breweries, fruit and vegetable processing, meat processing, and oil industries. Gaseous Pollutants: main types, classification, and treatment methods. Practical lessons in laboratory: application of theoretical concepts through experimental work and sample analysis using analytical instruments such as Gas Chromatography (GC), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and cold plasma. Laboratory activities aim to develop practical skills in effluent characterization and experimentation with innovative treatment technologies.

No specific prerequisites are required. However, a basic knowledge of general chemistry, organic chemistry, microbiology, and the fundamental principles of environmental engineering is recommended to facilitate the understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological processes involved in industrial wastewater and gas treatment.

Slides from the lectures. Industrial Water Quality, 4th Edition W. Wesley EckenfelderDavis L. FordAndrew J. Englande Metcalf & Eddy (2003). Wastewater Engineering – Treatment and Reuse, Mc-Graw-Hill

Attendance is strongly recommended, as it is consistent with the adopted educational model, which aims to promote gradual and structured learning, active student participation, and constructive interaction between instructors and students. Regular attendance also allows students to effectively follow practical exercises and consolidate the theoretical and experimental skills expected in the course.

Student learning will be assessed through an oral examination aimed at verifying the understanding of theoretical and practical aspects related to the physico-chemical and biological processes used in industrial wastewater treatment. During the interview, the student is expected to demonstrate critical discussion skills and the ability to connect theoretical concepts with practical applications

The course combines lectures and practical lessons in laboratory. Lectures provide the theoretical foundations of physico-chemical and biological processes for the treatment of industrial wastewater and gases, enabling students to acquire in-depth knowledge and develop critical analysis skills. Practical lessons in laboratory allow students to directly apply theoretical concepts to practical cases, developing experimental competencies and operational skills in wastewater assessment, the use of analytical instruments, and the implementation of treatment protocols. The combination of these teaching methods promotes active learning, reinforcing both theoretical knowledge and practical abilities, in alignment with the expected learning outcomes of the course.