Photochemical Reactors: Theory, Methods & Applications

Learning Objective:

Students will learn fundamental principles of photochemistry and photochemical processes that are common use. These fundamental principles will be used as a foundation to explore the behavior of photochemical reactors and methods used to evaluate and predict their behavior, including analytical and numerical methods. Applications of UV radiation will then be explored, including disinfection of water and wastewater; chemical transformations by direct photolysis, photooxidation, and photoreduction processes; and disinfection of air and surfaces. The focus in this class will be on fundamental concepts, so as to prompt their application in a wide range of settings, encourage questions and discussion, and to promote creativity.

Topics Covered:

History of photochemistry; principles of photochemistry; fundamental photochemical reactor theory; sources of UV radiation; actinometry and radiometry; numerical models for simulation of photochemical reactors; reactor validation methods; methods for quantification of microbial responses to UVC irradiation: UV disinfection of water; direct photolysis; advanced oxidation processes, and advanced reduction processes; UV disinfection of air and surfaces.

Prerequisites:

Calculus and differential equations, fluid mechanics, CE 550 or equivalent.

Applied / Theory:

30/70

Web Content:

Syllabus, grades, lecture notes, recorded lectures and accompanying presentation files, homework assignments, quizzes, exams and their corresponding solutions.

Homework:

Assignments will be given on roughly a weekly basis and will comprise 20% of the semester grade. Homework problems often require supporting calculations, which are included as part of a homework submission.

Exams:

An exam will be given after each course module and will focus on the topics that are included in the module for which the exam was developed.

Textbooks:

E.R. Blatchley III (2021) Photochemical Reactors: Theory, Methods and Applications of Ultraviolet Radiation, publication details pending.

Computer Requirements:

Access to common software (e.g., MS Office) is expected.

ProEd Minimum Requirements:

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