Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2021

Energy Science and Technology Master Information
Core Courses
At least two core courses must be passed in each area.
All students must participate in the course offered in the area "Interdisciplinary Energy Management"
Electrical Power Engineering
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-0530-00LOptimization in Energy SystemsW6 credits4GG. Hug
AbstractThe course covers various aspects of optimization with a focus on applications to energy networks and scheduling of hydro power. Throughout the course, concepts from optimization theory are introduced followed by practical applications of the discussed approaches.
ObjectiveAfter this class, the students should have a good handle on how to approach a research question which involves optimization and implement and solve the resulting optimization problem by choosing appropriate tools.
ContentIn our everyday’s life, we always try to take the decision which results in the best outcome. But how do we know what the best outcome will be? What are the actions leading to this optimal outcome? What are the constraints? These questions also have to be answered when controlling a system such as energy systems. Optimization theory provides the opportunity to find the answers by using mathematical formulation and solution of an optimization problem.
The course covers various aspects of optimization with a focus on applications to energy networks. Throughout the course, concepts from optimization theory are introduced followed by practical applications of the discussed approaches. The applications are focused on 1) the Optimal Power Flow problem which is formulated and solved to find optimal device settings in the electric power grid and 2) the scheduling problem of hydro power plants which in many countries, including Switzerland, dominate the electric power generation. On the theoretical side, the formulation and solving of unconstrained and constrained optimization problems, multi-time step optimization, stochastic optimization including probabilistic constraints and decomposed optimization (Lagrangian and Benders decomposition) are discussed.
Energy Flows and Processes
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
151-0928-00LCO2 Capture and Storage and the Industry of Carbon-Based ResourcesW4 credits3GM. Mazzotti, A. Bardow, P. Eckle, N. Gruber, M. Repmann, T. Schmidt, D. Sutter
AbstractCarbon-based resources (coal, oil, gas): origin, production, processing, resource economics. Climate change: science, policies. CCS systems: CO2 capture in power/industrial plants, CO2 transport and storage. Besides technical details, economical, legal and societal aspects are considered (e.g. electricity markets, barriers to deployment).
ObjectiveThe goal of the lecture is to introduce carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) systems, the technical solutions developed so far and the current research questions. This is done in the context of the origin, production, processing and economics of carbon-based resources, and of climate change issues. After this course, students are familiar with important technical and non-technical issues related to use of carbon resources, climate change, and CCS as a transitional mitigation measure.

The class will be structured in 2 hours of lecture and one hour of exercises/discussion. At the end of the semester a group project is planned.
ContentBoth the Swiss and the European energy system face a number of significant challenges over the coming decades. The major concerns are the security and economy of energy supply and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels will continue to satisfy the largest part of the energy demand in the medium term for Europe, and they could become part of the Swiss energy portfolio due to the planned phase out of nuclear power. Carbon capture and storage is considered an important option for the decarbonization of the power sector and it is the only way to reduce emissions in CO2 intensive industrial plants (e.g. cement- and steel production).
Building on the previously offered class "Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS)", we have added two specific topics: 1) the industry of carbon-based resources, i.e. what is upstream of the CCS value chain, and 2) the science of climate change, i.e. why and how CO2 emissions are a problem.
The course is devided into four parts:
I) The first part will be dedicated to the origin, production, and processing of conventional as well as of unconventional carbon-based resources.
II) The second part will comprise two lectures from experts in the field of climate change sciences and resource economics.
III) The third part will explain the technical details of CO2 capture (current and future options) as well as of CO2 storage and utilization options, taking again also economical, legal, and sociatel aspects into consideration.
IV) The fourth part will comprise two lectures from industry experts, one with focus on electricity markets, the other on the experiences made with CCS technologies in the industry.
Throughout the class, time will be allocated to work on a number of tasks related to the theory, individually, in groups, or in plenum. Moreover, the students will apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course in a case study covering all the topics.
Lecture notesPower Point slides and distributed handouts
LiteratureIPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C, 2018.
Link

IPCC AR5 Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, 2014. Link

IPCC Special Report on Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage, 2005. Link

The Global Status of CCS: 2014. Published by the Global CCS Institute, Nov 2014.
Link
Prerequisites / NoticeExternal lecturers from the industry and other institutes will contribute with specialized lectures according to the schedule distributed at the beginning of the semester.
529-0191-01LElectrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage TechnologiesW4 credits3GL. Gubler, E. Fabbri, J. Herranz Salañer
AbstractThe course provides an introduction to the principles and applications of electrochemical energy conversion (e.g. fuel cells) and storage (e.g. batteries) technologies in the broader context of a renewable energy system.
ObjectiveStudents will discover the importance of electrochemical energy conversion and storage in energy systems of today and the future, specifically in the framework of renewable energy scenarios. Basics and key features of electrochemical devices will be discussed, and applications in the context of the overall energy system will be highlighted with focus on future mobility technologies and grid-scale energy storage. Finally, the role of (electro)chemical processes in power-to-X and deep decarbonization concepts will be elaborated.
ContentOverview of energy utilization: past, present and future, globally and locally; today’s and future challenges for the energy system; climate changes; renewable energy scenarios; introduction to electrochemistry; electrochemical devices, basics and their applications: batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers, flow batteries, supercapacitors, chemical energy carriers: hydrogen & synthetic natural gas; electromobility; grid-scale energy storage, power-to-gas, power-to-X and deep decarbonization, techno-economics and life cycle analysis.
Lecture notesall lecture materials will be available for download on the course website.
Literature- M. Sterner, I. Stadler (Eds.): Handbook of Energy Storage (Springer, 2019).
- C.H. Hamann, A. Hamnett, W. Vielstich; Electrochemistry, Wiley-VCH (2007).
- T.F. Fuller, J.N. Harb: Electrochemical Engineering, Wiley (2018)
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic physical chemistry background required, prior knowledge of electrochemistry basics desired.
Energy Economics and Policy
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
363-0514-00LEnergy Economics and Policy
It is recommended for students to have taken a course in introductory microeconomics. If not, they should be familiar with microeconomics as in, for example,"Microeconomics" by Mankiw & Taylor and the appendices 4 and 7 of the book "Microeconomics" by Pindyck & Rubinfeld.
W3 credits2GM. Filippini, S. Srinivasan
AbstractAn introduction to energy economics and policy that covers the following topics: energy demand, investment in energy efficiency, investment in renewables, energy markets, market failures and behavioral anomalies, market-based and non-market based energy and climate policy instruments in industrialized and developing countries.
ObjectiveThe students will develop an understanding of economic principles and tools necessary to analyze energy issues and to understand energy and climate policy instruments. Emphasis will be put on empirical analysis of energy demand and supply, market failures, behavioral anomalies, energy and climate policy instruments in industrialized and developing countries, and investments in renewables and in energy-efficient technologies.
ContentThe course provides an introduction to energy economics principles and policy applications. The first part of the course will introduce the microeconomic foundation of energy demand and supply as well as market failures and behavioral anomalies. In a second part, we introduce the concept of investment analysis (such as the NPV) in the context of renewable and energy-efficient technologies. In the last part, we use the previously introduced concepts to analyze energy policies: from a government perspective, we discuss the mechanisms and implications of market oriented and non-market oriented policy instruments as well as applications in developing countries.

Throughout the entire course, we combine the material with insights from current research in energy economics. This combination will enable students to understand standard scientific literature in the field of energy economics and policy. Moreover, the class aims to show students how to relate current issues in the energy and climate spheres that influence industrialized and developing countries to insights from energy economics and policy.

Course evaluation: at the end of the course, there will be a written exam covering the topics of the course.
Prerequisites / NoticeIt is recommended for students to have taken a course in introductory microeconomics. If not, they should be familiar with microeconomics as in, for example, "Microeconomics" by Mankiw & Taylor and the appendices 4 and 7 of the book "Microeconomics" by Pindyck & Rubinfeld.
363-1115-00LEnergy Innovation and Management Restricted registration - show details W3 credits1VA. Stephan, G. Mavromatidis
AbstractFundamental changes in the energy sector, such as more decentralized energy production, challenge the existing business models of organizations such as utilities or technology providers. This course adopts quantitative and qualitative approaches to explore innovation and managerial, organizational and decision-making aspects in the energy sector for the transition to a low-carbon energy system.
ObjectiveAfter completing the course, students will be able to:
• Understand the challenges occurring in the energy sector and that companies (in or relying on the energy sector) are facing
• Understand the basics of managerial/organizational aspects in the energy sector with a particular focus on energy innovations
• Identify and use the appropriate quantitative energy tools for strategic decision-making in the energy sector
ContentThis course explores innovation and managerial, organizational and decision-making aspects in the energy sector for the transition towards a low-carbon energy system. The course is split in two parts with a quantitative and a qualitative focus, respectively.

In the first part, students will learn about aspects such as the financial valuation of energy investment decisions and the ways that quantitative energy models of different types can be used to assist with strategic decision-making in the energy sector. Students will be introduced to two types of models: (1) techno-economic analyses of renewable energy generation and storage technologies, and (2) an energy market game, which simulates the behavior of utilities in an electricity market. This part of the course will include individual and group assignments.

In the second part, guided by questions like “how does the energy industry change and why” or “how would you make the decision if you were the head of a utility”, the students will understand how firms manage innovations and why they can be difficult to manage even for established firms in the energy sector. This part of the course will be guided as an interactive case study.
Interdisciplinary Energy Management
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-1631-20LCase Studies: Energy Systems and Technology: Part 2 Restricted registration - show details
Only for Energy Science and Technology MSc.
O2 credits4GC. Franck, C. Schaffner
AbstractThis course will allow the students to get an interdisciplinary overview of the “Energy” topic. It will explore the challenges to build a sustainable energy system for the future. This will be done through the means of case studies that the students have to work on. These case studies will be provided by industry partners.
ObjectiveThe students will understand the different aspects involved in designing solutions for a sustainable future energy system. They will have experience in collaborating in interdisciplinary teams. They will have an understanding on how industry is approaching new solutions.
Lecture notesDescriptions of case studies.
Internship in Industry
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-1650-10LInternship in Industry Restricted registration - show details
Only for Energy Science and Technology MSc.
O12 creditsexternal organisers
AbstractThe main objective of the 12-week internship is to expose master's students to the industrial work environment. During this period, students have the opportunity to be involved in on-going projects at the host institution.
Objectivesee above
Semester Project
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-1101-00LHow to Write Scientific Texts
Strongly recommended prerequisite for Semester Projects, Bachelor's, and Master Theses at D-ITET (MSc BME, BSc/MSc EEIT, MSc EST and MSc QE).
E-0 creditsU. Koch
AbstractThe four hour lecture covers the basics of writing and presenting of scientific work. The focus is on the structure and the main elements of a scientific text rather than the language. Citation rules, good practice of scientific writing and an overview on software tools are part of the training.
Objective- Knowledge on structure and content of scientific texts and presentations
- Stimulation of a discussion on how to write a scientific text versus an interesting novel
- Discussion of the practice of proper citing and critical reflection on plagiarism
Content* Topic 1: Structure of Scientific Texts (title, author list, abstract, state-of-the-art, "in this paper" paragraph, scientific part, summary, equations, figures)

* Topic 2: Structure of Scientific Presentations

* Topic 3: Citation Rules and Citation Software

* Topic 4: Guidelines for Research Integrity

The lecture will be given in two parts on two afternoons. Some exercises will be built into the lecture.
LiteratureETH "Citation Etiquette", see Link.

ETH "Guidelines for Research Integrity", see Link
Prerequisites / NoticeStudents should be writing either a bachelor/semester/master thesis or a scientific publication in the immediate future.
227-1671-10LSemester ProjectO12 credits20ASupervisors
AbstractThe semester project is designed to train the students in solving specific problems from the field of Energy Science & Technology. This project uses the technical and social skills acquired during the master's program. The semester project ist advised by a professor and must be approved in advance by the tutor.
Objectivesee above
Electives
These courses are particularly recommended, other ETH-courses from the field of Energy Science and Technology at large may be chosen in accordance with your tutor.
Electrical Power Engineering
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-0117-10LExperimental Techniques Restricted registration - show details W6 credits4GC. Franck, H.‑J. Weber
AbstractThis lecture is an introduction to experimental and measurement techniques. The course is designed with practical relevance in mind and comprises several laboratory modules where the students perform, evaluate and document experiments. The taught topics are of relevance for all electrical engineering disciplines, in this course they are taught with examples of high-voltage engineering.
ObjectiveAt the end of this lecture, the students will be able to:
- perform basic practical laboratory experiments and record data, in particular with an oscilloscope.
- take a meaningful Lab Notebook, write a clear measurement evaluation protocol, and can estimate the accuracy and precision of the evaluated data.
- can explain the main reasons for electromagnetic interference and propose measures to avoid or reduce these interferences.
- Explain and use different methods to generate and measure high voltages and calculate basic relevant relations.
Content- Messtechnik, Messunsicherheit, Messprotokolle
- Erzeugung und Messung hoher Spannungen
- Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
- Laborpraktika
Lecture notesVorlesungsunterlagen
LiteratureJ. Hoffmann, Taschenbuch der Messtechnik, Carl Hanser Verlag, 7. Auflage, 2015 (ISBN: 978-3446442719)
A. Küchler, Hochspannungstechnik, Springer Berlin, 4. Auflage, 2017 (ISBN: 978-3662546994)
A. Schwab, Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit, Springer Verlag, 6. Auflage, 2010 (ISBN: 978-3642166099)
227-0248-00LPower Electronic Systems II Information W6 credits4GJ. W. Kolar
AbstractThis course details structures, operating ranges, and control concepts of modern power electronic systems to provide a deeper understanding of power electronic circuits and power components. Most recent concepts of high switching frequency AC/DC converters and AC/AC matrix inverters are presented. Simulation exercises, implemented in GeckoCIRCUITS, are used to consolidate the concepts discussed.
ObjectiveThe objective of this course is to convey knowledge of structures, operating ranges, and control concepts of modern power electronic systems. Further objectives are: to know most recent concepts and operation modes of high switching frequency AC/DC converters and AC/AC matrix inverters; to develop a deeper understanding of multi-pulse power converter circuits, transformers, and electromechanical energy converters; and to understand in-depth details of power electronic systems. Simulation exercises, implemented in the electric circuit simulator GeckoCIRCUITS, are used to consolidate the presented theoretical concepts.
ContentConverter dynamics and control: State Space Averaging, transfer functions, controller design, impact of the input filter on the converter transfer functions.
Performance data of single-phase and three-phase systems: effect of different loss components on the efficiency characteristics, linear and non-linear single phase loads, power flow of general three-phase systems, space vector calculus.
Modeling and control of three-phase PWM rectifiers: system characterization using rotating coordinates, control structure, transfer functions, operation with symmetrical and unsymmetrical mains voltages.
Scaling laws of transformers and electromechanical actuators.
Drives with permanent magnet synchronous machines: basic function, modeling, field-oriented control.
Unidirectional AC/DC converters and AC/AC converters: voltage and current DC link converters, indirect and direct matrix converters.
Lecture notesLecture notes and associated exercises including correct answers, simulation program for interactive self-learning including visualization/animation features.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Introductory course on power electronics.
227-0528-00LPower System Dynamics, Control and Operation Information W6 credits4GG. Hug
AbstractThe electric power system is a system that is never in steady state due to constant changes in load and generation inputs. This course is dedicated to the dynamical properties of the electric power grid including how the system state is estimated, generation/load balance is ensured by frequency control and how the system reacts in case of faults in the system. The course includes two excursions.
ObjectiveThe learning objectives of the course are to understand and be able to apply the dynamic modeling of power systems, to compute and discuss the actions of generators based on frequency control, to describe the workings of a synchronous machine and the implications on the grid, to describe and apply state estimation procedures, to discuss the IT infrastructure and protection algorithms in power systems.
ContentThe electric power system is a system that is never in steady state due to constant changes in load and generation inputs. Consequently, the monitoring and operation of the electric power grid is a challenging task. The course starts with the introduction of general operational procedures and the discussion of state estimation which is an important tool to observe the state of the grid. The course is then dedicated to the modeling and studying of the dynamical properties of the electric power grid. Frequency control which ensures the generation/load balance in real time is the basis for real-time control and is presented in depth. For the analysis of how the system detects and reacts dynamically in fault situations, protection and dynamic models for synchronous machines are introduced.
Lecture notesLecture notes. WWW pages.
227-0530-00LOptimization in Energy SystemsW6 credits4GG. Hug
AbstractThe course covers various aspects of optimization with a focus on applications to energy networks and scheduling of hydro power. Throughout the course, concepts from optimization theory are introduced followed by practical applications of the discussed approaches.
ObjectiveAfter this class, the students should have a good handle on how to approach a research question which involves optimization and implement and solve the resulting optimization problem by choosing appropriate tools.
ContentIn our everyday’s life, we always try to take the decision which results in the best outcome. But how do we know what the best outcome will be? What are the actions leading to this optimal outcome? What are the constraints? These questions also have to be answered when controlling a system such as energy systems. Optimization theory provides the opportunity to find the answers by using mathematical formulation and solution of an optimization problem.
The course covers various aspects of optimization with a focus on applications to energy networks. Throughout the course, concepts from optimization theory are introduced followed by practical applications of the discussed approaches. The applications are focused on 1) the Optimal Power Flow problem which is formulated and solved to find optimal device settings in the electric power grid and 2) the scheduling problem of hydro power plants which in many countries, including Switzerland, dominate the electric power generation. On the theoretical side, the formulation and solving of unconstrained and constrained optimization problems, multi-time step optimization, stochastic optimization including probabilistic constraints and decomposed optimization (Lagrangian and Benders decomposition) are discussed.
227-0536-00LMultiphysics Simulations for Power Systems Information
This course is defined so and planned to be an addition to the module "227-0537-00L Technology of Electric Power System Components".
However, the students who are familiar with the fundamentals of electromagnetic fields could attend only this course without its 227-0537-00-complement.
W4 credits2V + 2UJ. Smajic
AbstractThe goals of this course are a) understanding the fundamentals of the electromagnetic, thermal, mechanical, and coupled field simulations and b) performing effective simulations of primary equipment of electric power systems. The course is understood complementary to 227-0537-00L "Technology of Electric Power System Components", but can also be taken separately.
ObjectiveThe student should learn the fundamentals of the electromagnetic, thermal, mechanical, and coupled fields simulations necessary for modern product development and research based on virtual prototyping. She / he should also learn the theoretical background of the finite element method (FEM) and its application to low- and high-frequency electromagnetic field simulation problems. The practical exercises of the course should be done by using one of the commercially available field simulation software (Infolytica, ANSYS, and / or COMSOL). After completing the course the student should be able to properly and efficiently use the software to simulate practical design problems and to understand and interpret the obtained results.
Content1. Elektromagnetic Fields and Waves: Simulation Aspects (1 lecture, 2 hours)
a. Short review of the governing equations
b. Boundary conditions
c. Initial conditions
d. Linear and nonlinear material properties
e. Coupled fields (electro-mechanical and electro-thermal coupling)

2. Finite Element Method for elektromagnetic simulations (5 lectures and 3 exercises, 16 hours)
a. Scalar-FEM in 2-D (electrostatic, magnetostatic, eddy-currents, etc.)
b. Vector-FEM in 3-D (3-D eddy-currents, wave propagation, etc.)
c. Numerical aspects of the analysis (convergence, linear solvers, preconditioning, mesh quality, etc.)
d. Matlab code for 2-D FEM for learning and experimenting

3. Practical applications (5 lectures and 5 exercises, 20 hours)
a. Dielectric analysis of high-voltage equipment
b. Nonlinear quasi-electrostatic analysis of surge arresters
c. Eddy-currents analysis of power transformers
d. Electromagnetic analysis of electric machines
e. Very fast transients in gas insulated switchgears (GIS)
f. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
227-0537-00LTechnology of Electric Power System ComponentsW6 credits4GC. Franck
AbstractBasics of the technology of important components in electric power transmission and distribution systems (primary technology).
ObjectiveAt the end of this course, the students can name the primary components of electric power systems and explain where and why they are used. For the most important components, the students can explain the working principle in detail and calculate and derive key parameters.
In addition, students know how to read scientific papers and are able to extract its content efficiently.
ContentBasic physical and engineering aspects for transmission and distribution of electric power. Limiting boundary conditions are not only electrical parameters, but also mechanical, thermal, chemical, environmental and economical aspects. Focus is on components for power system protection (switchgear, fuses and surge arresters) and underground cables.
There will be excursions to industrial companies.
Part of the course is devoted to recent developments and students will learn how to read scientific papers.

The course "Multiphysics Simulations for Power Systems 227-0536-00L" is aligned with the present course and considered complementary.
Lecture notesyes
Literatureadditional literature will be available online via the teaching document repository.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture "Introduction to Electric Power Transmission: System & Technology" is a strongly recommended prerequisite.
227-0730-00LPower Market II - Modeling and Strategic PositioningW6 credits4GD. Reichelt, G. A. Koeppel
AbstractOptions in the electricity business
Portfolio and risk management: valuation of hedging strategies, risk assessment
Hydropower optimization and hedging
Valuation of power plants with real options
Capacity markets and quota Systems
Complex energy contracts with embedded options
Strategy and positioning for utilities
ObjectiveThe students know the main derivatives applied in the electricity business. They are able to est up hedging strategies and can evaluate them. They habe a basic understanding of the optimization of large, complex hydro power plants, of capacity markets and of quota systems. They know the discounted cash-flow method and real options to assess the value of power plants. The students are able to identify the components of complex energy supply contracts and to assess the risk.
ContentOptions in the electricity business: option valuation with binominal trees, Black-Scholes formula, sensitivities (Greeks), implied volatility
Portfolio and risk management: delta- and gamma-neutral hedging, valuation of hedging strategies, risk assessment (case study)
Hydropower optimization and hedging
Valuation of assets (power plants, grids), DCF method, real options
Strategy and Positioning: Mini cases (group work)
Capacity markets and Quota Systems
Application of derivatives: complex energy contracts with embedded options, development of sales-oriented products
Credit Risk Management
Electricity marketing
Lecture notesHandouts - all material in English
Prerequisites / Notice2 day excursion, presentations of invited speakers from the industry

Moodle: Link
Energy Flows and Processes
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
101-0206-00LHydraulic EngineeringW5 credits4GR. Boes
AbstractHydraulic systems, schemes and structures (e.g. dams, intakes, conduits, pipes, open channels, weirs, powerhouses, locks), fundamentals in river engineering and natural hazards
ObjectiveKnowledge of hydraulic systems and their main hydraulic components and structures; competence in planning and design of hydraulic structures with regard to serviceability and reliability
ContentHydraulic systems: High-head storage power plants and low-head run-of-river power plants.
Weirs: weir and gate types, hydraulic design.
Intakes: intake types, desilting facilities and sand traps.
Channels: design, open and closed channels.
Closed conduits: linings, hydraulic design of pressure tunnels and shafts.
Dams and reservoirs: dam types, appurtenant structures
River engineering: flow computation, sediment transport, engineering and environmental measures.
Natural hazards: types, basics of countermeasures
Inland navigation: channels and locks.
Exercises in written form, exercises in hydraulic and computer laboratory.
Field trip.
Lecture notesComprehensive script "Hydraulic structures" in German.
LiteratureLiterature references are given at the end of each chapter of the script. Recommended books: see course description in German
Prerequisites / Noticestrongly recommended: basic knowledge in hydraulics (fluid mechanics)
101-0588-01LRe-/Source the Built EnvironmentW3 credits2SG. Habert
AbstractThe course focuses on material choice and energy strategies to limit the environmental impact of construction sector. During the course, specific topics will be presented (construction technologies, environmental policies, social consequences of material use, etc.). The course aims to present sustainable options to tackle the global challenge we are facing and show that "it is not too late".
ObjectiveAfter the lecture series, the students are aware of the main challenges for the production and use of building materials.

They know the different technologies/propositions available, and environmental consequence of a choice.

They understand in which conditions/context one resource/technology will be more appropriate than another
ContentA general presentation of the global context allows to identify the objectives that as engineer, material scientist or architect needs to achieve to create a sustainable built environment.

The course is then conducted as a serie of guest lectures focusing on one specific aspect to tackle this global challenge and show that "it is not too late".

The lecture series is divided as follows:
- General presentation
- Notion of resource depletion, resilience, criticality, decoupling, etc.
- Guest lectures covering different resources and proposing different option to build or maintain a sustainable built environment.
Lecture notesFor each lecture slides will be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture series will be conducted in English and is aimed at students of master's programs, particularly the departments ARCH, BAUG, ITET, MAVT, MTEC and USYS.

No lecture will be given during Seminar week.
151-0060-00LThermodynamics and Transport Phenomena in NanotechnologyW4 credits2V + 2UT. Schutzius, D. Taylor
AbstractThe lecture deals with thermodynamics and transport phenomena in nano- and microscale systems. Typical areas of applications are microelectronics manufacturing and cooling, manufacturing of novel materials and coatings, surface technologies, wetting phenomena and related technologies, and micro- and nanosystems and devices.
ObjectiveThe student will acquire fundamental knowledge of interfacial and micro-nanoscale thermofluidics including electric field and light interaction with surfaces. Furthermore, the student will be exposed to a host of applications ranging from superhydrophobic surfaces and microelectronics cooling to solar energy, all of which will be discussed in the context of the course. The student will also judge state-of-the-art scientific research in these areas.
ContentThermodynamic aspects of intermolecular forces; Interfacial phenomena; Surface tension; Wettability and contact angle; Wettability of Micro/Nanoscale textured surfaces: superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity.

Physics of micro- and nanofluidics as well as heat and mass transport phenomena at the nanoscale.

Scientific communication and exposure to state-of-the-art scientific research in the areas of Nanotechnology and the Water-Energy Nexus.
Lecture notesyes
151-0160-00LNuclear Energy SystemsW4 credits2V + 1UH.‑M. Prasser, P. Burgherr, I. Günther-Leopold, W. Hummel, T. Kämpfer, T. Kober, X. Zhang
AbstractNuclear energy and sustainability, uranium production, uranium enrichment, nuclear fuel production, reprocessing of spent fuel, nuclear waste disposal, Life Cycle Analysis, energy and materials balance of Nuclear Power Plants.
ObjectiveStudents get an overview on the physical and chemical fundamentals, the technological processes and the environmental impact of the full energy conversion chain of nuclear power generation. The are enabled to assess to potentials and risks arising from embedding nuclear power in a complex energy system.
Content(1) survey on the cosmic and geological origin of uranium, methods of uranium mining, separation of uranium from the ore, (2) enrichment of uranium (diffusion cells, ultra-centrifuges, alternative methods), chemical conversion uranium oxid - fluorid - oxid, fuel rod fabrication processes, (3) fuel reprocessing (hydrochemical, pyrochemical) including modern developments of deep partitioning as well as methods to treat and minimize the amount and radiotoxicity of nuclear waste. (4) nuclear waste disposal, waste categories and origin, geological and engineered barriers in deep geological repositories, the project of a deep geological disposal for radioactive waste in Switzerland, (5) methods to measure the sustainability of energy systems, comparison of nuclear energy with other energy sources, environmental impact of the nuclear energy system as a whole, including the question of CO2 emissions, CO2 reduction costs, radioactive releases from the power plant, the fuel chain and the final disposal. The material balance of different fuel cycles with thermal and fast reactors isdiscussed.
Lecture notesLecture slides will be distributed as handouts and in digital form
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