Governments around the world have set legally binding targets in support of achieving ambitious low-carbon objectives and are investing heavily in the development of technology that will deliver decarbonisation of the energy sector.
Achieving these objectives is, however, a substantial challenge and requires input and engagement across a broad range of sectors. The rapid development of these sectors also emphasises the need for advanced skills and training portfolios to be delivered to not only address these challenges but also create future opportunities.
Therefore, the aim of this programme is to provide students with a strong foundation of the engineering and associated skills that are needed to underpin and contribute towards achieving sustainability and greener societies. In doing so, they will have an excellent platform to support existing and new industries in their transition towards achieving net-zero targets.
Students completing this course will possess skills which are increasingly sought after by local and international employers, particularly those in manufacturing and energy sectors. The course will also introduce students to a suite of emerging technologies which are being considered and will provide them with the skills to be able to assess them, providing opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth in a variety of sectors.
This programme is run by academic leaders in Sustainability and Decarbonisation from the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and includes specialised input from other experts at Queen's University and from industry.
Net Zero Engineering (Distance Learning) highlights
Career Development
Students will learn and enhance the skills required to both help governments meet sustainability targets and respond to industry demands to maximize innovation in renewable energy deployment. These skills will be crucial as we transition towards a low-carbon society around the globe.
Internationally Renowned Experts
Sustainability is one of the School’s two core goals and to pursue this aim staff are leading multi-million pound research projects on sustainability and net zero research. As the UK’s only combined Chemistry and Chemical Engineering School within the Russell group, our experts very well placed to equip the next generation of scientists to address these issues.
We are ranked 13th in the UK for the study of Chemical Engineering and joint 1st in the UK for research intensity in Chemical Engineering (Complete Universities Guide UK 2023). We are also ranked 7th for student-staff ratios in the subject (Guardian University Guide 2022).
Industry Links
Researchers in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering maintain close links with government departments and industrial partners focussed on the development of policy and processes for a Net Zero future.
We regularly consult and develop links with a large number of global employers from a variety of sectors including large energy producers as well as smaller industries. Furthermore, we work with a range of local and start-up/spin-out companies including Green Lizard Technologies and Nuada.
Student Experience
There will be a series of guest lectures from experienced industry personnel. In addition, students will be able to engage with companies by working on industry-academia projects.
Students enrol on a 3 year part-time basis, which allows you to study while in full-time employment. Part-time students will complete six taught modules over the course of 2 years before then undertaking a Research Project.
The MSc is awarded to students who successfully complete six taught modules (120 CATS points) and the Research Project (60 CATS points).
Students will be given the option of completing the MSc in 2 years by completing the Research Project on a full-time basis (summer term) at the end of Year 2. Alternatively, students can undertake their Research Project during Year 3.
Exit qualifications are available: students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma by successfully completing 120 CATS points from the six core taught modules or a Postgraduate Certificate by successfully completing 60 CATS points from either of two defined sets of three taught modules.
Introduction
Achieving the Net Zero Emissions targets set by governments around the globe will not be simple. It requires engagement across a range of disciplines that are underpinned by a strong understanding of the fundamental science and engineering behind sustainability and renewable energy. This course will target that challenge by equipping students with an enhanced skill set which will provide them with the tools to not only evaluate and assess sustainability but deliver low-carbon engineering solutions to a range of international industries. As a result, our graduates will be well placed to contribute and play a crucial role across multiple sectors as we transition towards a Net Zero society.
Module content
CHE7201:
Fundamentals of renewable energy technologies including wind, solar, marine, geothermal and biomass;
Integration and evaluation of renewable energy systems with other current and emerging low-carbon technologies;
Application of low-carbon systems to either retrofit existing, or design new buildings, factories and infrastructure;
Economics and other factors for supporting decision making in the deployment of low-carbon systems.
CHE7202:
Concepts of sustainability and Net Zero Carbon;
Applying sustainability criteria and metrics to industrial, commercial and residential sectors;
Assessing the societal impacts of technology, engineering, design of infrastructure and policy implications in the area of sustainability and Net Zero Carbon;
Evaluating regional and global trade-offs associated with resource use strategies to achieve Net Zero Carbon.
CHE7203:
Modelling mass, energy and carbon balances;
Methods and tools for collection and analysis of environmental sustainability and carbon data;
Applied life cycle analysis and carbon foot printing;
Tools for energy and carbon management.
CHE7204:
Large scale hydrogen production;
Electrochemical approaches;
Emerging technologies for hydrogen systems;
Hydrogen separation technologies.
CHE7205:
Engineering properties of Hydrogen;
Hydrogen energy systems and integration;
Hydrogen system modelling;
Hydrogen safety and design codes.
CHE7206:
The hydrogen economy;
Advancing lower TRL hydrogen systems towards operational use;
Design of a hydrogen power system (project work - two blocks).
CHE7207:
Students will carry out a research project under the supervision of an academic and/or industrial supervisor, within an applied area of net zero engineering with assessment based on a dissertation (80%) and an oral presentation (20%).
Teaching Delivery
Modules CHE7201-7206 are all taught in blocks of 4 sections and all are based on continual assessment.
Online delivery and blended-learning activities will be utilised to enable students to access learning materials in a highly flexible manner, compatible with a part-time mode of study. Delivery will take the form of pre-recorded lectures and reading material being made available to students on a weekly basis, followed by regular synchronous online workshops, seminars and Q&A sessions to ensure continuous engagement with the students.
The expectation is that the Research Module CHE7208 will be undertaken in Year 3 but there will be an option to take it on a full-time (summer term) basis at the end of Year 2 if all taught modules are successfully completed. This option will have fee implications as the MSc would then be completed within two years.
Chemical Enginnering Dr Skillen is Programme Director for the MSc in Net Zero Engineering. He has previously held a fellowship with the UKRI Supergen Bioenergy Hub. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biosciences from Robert Gordon University and a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the same institute (in collaboration with the University of St. Andrews and California Institute of Technology). His research focusses on photocatalytic technology development for a range of applications centred around environmental remediation and energy production. He currently has a lead role in the Photocatalytic Technology Research Group (PhotoTech R&D) at QUB. Dr Skillen has published several research articles and book chapters and currently sits on the international editorial board of Biomass & Bioenergy (Elsevier) and was part of a team of 10 researchers from across the UK that created the first graphic novel on Bioenergy.
Chemical Engineering Dr Gui is interested in synthesis of solar fuel energy and finding energy-efficient solutions for conversion of carbon dioxide into useful chemicals such as zero-carbon hydrocarbon fuel.
Chemical Engineering Robin Curry is a Lecturer of Education in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at QUB. He specializes in Life Cycle Analysis and has expertise in the renewable energy sector including Anaerobic Digestion for biomethane generation.
Teaching Times
Blended teaching and assessments will be delivered via a mixture of pre-recorded lectures, live online workshop and seminar classes and self-directed study and practice materials.
Learning and Teaching
Our online delivery aims replicate the interactive and engaging nature of an on-campus delivery.
Teaching support.
There is online advisory support for learners to connect with experts who provide bespoke one-to-one support, offered Monday to Friday, daytime to early evening, to flexibly support leaners.
Assessment
Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:
Awarding of the qualifications is based on continuous assessment of coursework, tests and assessment of modules based solely on submitted work related to private, individual study .
Facilities
The McClay library at QUB provides you with online access to relevant journals (e.g. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Journal of Cleaner Production, Energy Policy), books and other research literature. Key databases including Scopus and the Web of Science are also at your disposal (see the library’s information guide [https://libguides.qub.ac.uk/chem] for an overview). If you would like help with making the most of the wide range of available sources, your subject librarian at the library can be contacted for advice and one-to-one support.
Investment continues to be made in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering extending our range of facilities. The well-equipped research laboratories are augmented by excellent computational facilities and some of the most modern instrumentation available from HPLC, GC and mass spectrometers, to FT-IR, UV-Vis and Fluorescence spectroscopy, dedicated to the training of analytical techniques. Significant additions to open-access equipment have been made recently and all activities are supported by a highly trained team of technicians.
For further information please see: https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofChemistryandChemicalEngineering/Discover/Facilities/
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
Block 1
Topic:
Concepts of sustainability and Net Zero Carbon Staff TBC
Block 2
Topic:
Applying sustainability criteria and metrics to industrial, commercial and residential sectors Staff TBC
Block 3
Topic:
Assessing the societal impacts of technology, engineering, design of infrastructure and policy implications in the area of sustainability and Net Zero Carbon Staff TBC
Block 4
Topic:
Evaluating regional and global trade-offs associated with resource use strategies to achieve Net Zero Carbon Staff TBC
Summary of Module Delivery:
This module is delivered in blocks of 3 weeks (on average). Each of the four blocks consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams.
Learning Outcomes
This module examines the drivers for sustainability and achieving net zero carbon. It looks at how this need has accelerated over recent years and sets out to evaluate the opportunities arising from green growth. It provides an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of this challenge and enhances skills in areas relating to interdisciplinary communication of complex and interdependent concepts.
At the end of the module the students are expected to:
Have a sound understanding of the concepts of sustainability and zero carbon.
Read, understand and assimilate new information and subsume acquired knowledge into a concise format.
Critically evaluate literature and current thinking in the area.
Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills, including preparation and presentation of reports.
Be able to work in a team, through participation in group projects.
Evaluate impacts and consequences of sustainability decisions, and their uncertainty, at regional and global scales.
Skills
Skills Associated With Module:
Critical and interdisciplinary thinking.
Ability to review literature, to produce written documents and reports.
Analytical skills
Research Project in Net Zero Engineering (Part-Time)
Overview
Summary of Lecture Content:
Lecture 1: Performing a literature review
Lecture 2: Writing a dissertation thesis
Facilitation Of Research Practice:
Whereas the expectation is that most CHE7208 students will engage in theoretical and modelling-based projects, some may be able to carry out lab-based projects in their place of employment or in QUB labs depending on their day release arrangements. The mode of research undertaken by a student must be discussed with and approved by the Module Co-ordinator in the first instance who will take into account individual circumstances including (where relevant) visa requirements and project aims.
Within this module, students will carry out a research project under the supervision of an academic and/or industrial supervisor, within an applied area of net zero engineering. Students will be able to conduct their projects under two themes; theoretical and modelling-based or lab-based, which both align with research clusters within the school and reflect the scientific and engineering principles of the taught material
A summary of the two research project themes is given below:
Theoretical and modelling-based: these projects can be conducted both remotely and on-campus as required, but there will not be the need/requirement for physical experimentation to be conducted in labs. These research projects may involve but is not limited to whole systems analysis and feasibility, Life Cycle Analysis, Techno-Economic Analysis, systems modelling and simulation, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and sustainability model development for energy systems. Where appropriate, ‘real’ data sets and efficiencies can be provided by research clusters and groups within the school for model and system validation.
Lab-based: these projects will primarily be conducted in research laboratories and involve physical experimentation (i.e., ‘wet’ experiments) that may include but is not limited to catalyst synthesis and development, reactor design and operation, hydrogen generation, gas separation, electrochemical technology, and battery development. In addition, a range of characterisation and analytical techniques will be utilised by students to generate data and allow interpretation and analysis for inclusion in their final dissertation. Lab-based projects can be carried out remotely and on-site in industry, subject to the availability of suitable facilities and health and safety guidelines. In this situation, the Module Coordinator will discuss the specific requirements of a remote lab-based project with the designated point of contact for the site (e.g. Line Manager etc). As noted there may be an opportunity to undertake lab-based projects at QUB subject to individual circumstances.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module the students are expected to:
Demonstrate experience in scientific research at a level appropriate to the master’s degree i.e. professional scientific research, including data collection and analysis
Contribute, design, and communicate scientific research in a written form.
Read, understand, and assimilate new information and subsume acquired knowledge into a concise format.
Perform advanced mathematical and statistical manipulation of data.
Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills, including preparation and presentation of technical reports based on experimental results.
Effectively work and contribute to a team, through participation in research clusters including progress update meetings
Apply critical thinking through the validation of information (personal and literature data) and the application of theoretical knowledge to practical method development and problem solving.
Skills
Skills Associated with Module:
Literature and practical research.
Ability to communicate scientific research.
Ability to work in a team.
Problem solving.
Good numeracy, literacy, and IT skills (spreadsheets, word-processing, structure drawing and modelling etc.).
Independent learning.
Time management and personal prioritisation skills.
Critical thinking.
NAME CONTRIBUTION
Kevin Morgan Block 1: 1 lecture
David Rooney Block 1: 3 lectures
Nicole Gui Block 2: 2 lectures
Jehad Abu-Dahrieh Block 2: 2 lectures
Peter Knockerman Block 2: 1 lecture
Robin Curry Block 3: TBC
Chunfei Wu Block 3: TBC
Lorenzo Stella Block 3: TBC
TBC Block 4: 3 lectures
Summary of Lecture Content:
This module covers the design and modelling of hydrogen energy systems, including systems integration, basics of control and dynamics, storage, and safety. The content delivered here will build on the core principles explored in CHE7204 with more focus on the engineering aspects associated with whole hydrogen systems including using case studies as key examples. The module will be delivered over the following four Blocks:
Block 1: Engineering properties of Hydrogen
Within this block students will gain a deeper understanding of the key physical properties which influence the design of hydrogen systems including thermodynamic properties for compression and the processes of diffusion and solubility which impact on choices of metallurgy, seals, and other components of the system.
• Block 1 Lectures:
o Lecture 1: Key thermodynamic and engineering properties and equations for hydrogen systems
o Lecture 2: Diffusion and solubility fundamentals and their impact in hydrogen energy systems
o Lecture 3: Tools for property prediction and use
Block 2: Hydrogen energy systems and integration
This block breaks down examples of existing hydrogen energy systems into the individual sub-systems and technologies and provides greater detail on the function and underpinning science and engineering associated with their design. This will include areas such as hydrogen storage, tank design and sizing, cooling/heating, pressure reduction etc. It builds on the knowledge and understanding gained in Module CHE7204 (Block 1 and 4) and Block 1 of this module and applies this to real life systems. This Block is also supported with Workshop 1 and 2 which explores an on-going project being developed locally.
• Block 2 Lectures:
o Lecture 4: Applied process flow diagrams for hydrogen generation and use Lecture 5: Design calculations for hydrogen system heat exchanges and pressure change processes.
o Lecture 6: Engineering design of chemical and electrochemical hydrogen generation systems and cycles
o Lecture 7: Integration of hydrogen generation and power management including battery technology
Block 3: Hydrogen system modelling
Here students will develop models to evaluate the behaviour of energy systems. This will include the use of process simulation tools to evaluate the system. The block will also include core aspects of control and system dynamics to gain a more detailed understanding of system behaviour. This Block is supported by Workshop 3.
• Block 3 Lectures:
o Lecture 8: Process simulation of hydrogen energy systems.
o Lecture 9: Control dynamics of energy systems
o Lecture 10: Unsteady state operations: matching generation to production
Block 4: Hydrogen safety and design codes
In this last block students will become familiar with safety and design codes associated with hydrogen systems and will be able to undertake preliminary risk assessments of such systems. Students will also explore the importance of hydrogen safety protocol development and the role it plays in both current processes and emerging technologies. The content delivered in this Block is supported by Workshop 4.
• Block 4 Lectures:
o Lecture 11: Key principles of hydrogen safety
o Lecture 12: Existing hydrogen infrastructure safety protocols
o Lecture 13: Risk assessment approaches to hydrogen safety
Summary of Workshops:
• Workshop 1: Case study on hydrogen purification from different synthesis routes
• Workshop 2: Case study on the Belfast power-to-X project for hydrogen storage
• Workshop 3: Simulation of a hydrogen power train
• Workshop 4: Hydrogen safety workshop
Summary of Module Delivery:
Each of the four blocks consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams and will be delivered over a period of 3 weeks (on average). Blocks 2-4 are supported with workshops which will be delivered live (and recorded) and will provide an opportunity to explore topics in more detail and allow students to engage in discussions with staff.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module the students are expected to:
• Describe and demonstrate a detailed understanding of the various components which are included in a hydrogen energy system.
• Describe the impact and use of the core physical and chemical properties of hydrogen under varying process conditions in the design of system components.
• Explain the fundamental science involved with diffusion and solubility in relation to hydrogen
• Demonstrate an understanding of standard engineering process flow diagrams and their importance in the communication of the process design
• Discuss key examples of hydrogen energy sub-systems including purification and membrane technology
• Describe the fundamental principles and components of the Rankine and Brayton cycles
• Investigate system integration including impact of combinations with battery technology.
• Develop models which can predict hydrogen systems behaviour and energy output.
• Demonstrate the importance of control dynamics in multicomponent and multiphase energy systems
• Define the key principles of hydrogen safety including hazard and risk identification and processes and safety features of current technologies and infrastructure
• Describe the importance of hydrogen safety and associated protocols in relation to production, transport and storage
• Discuss and apply control strategies and safety standards associated with hydrogen energy systems.
Skills
Skills Associated with Module:
• Increased STEM
• Improved modelling
• Safety awareness
• Critical and interdisciplinary thinking.
• Ability to review literature, to produce written documents and reports.
• Analytical skills
Block 1
Topic:
Modelling mass, energy and carbon balances Staff TBC
Block 2
Topic:
Methods and tools for collection and analysis of environmental sustainability and carbon data Staff TBC
Block 3
Topic:
Applied life cycle analysis and carbon foot printing Staff TBC
Block 4
Topic:
Tools for energy and carbon management Staff TBC
Summary of Module Delivery:
This module is delivered in blocks of 3 weeks (on average). Each of the four blocks consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams.
Learning Outcomes
This module provides a greater understanding of the methods and tools that facilitate measurement and tracking of progress towards net-zero targets and furthermore provides an evidence base for decision making at different levels. Within the module we look at the tools and techniques that are used to measure environmental sustainability, including greenhouse gas emissions, resource use, waste, and water. We look at how these are applied across sectors and the challenges of their measurement, reporting and management.
At the end of the module students will be able to:
• Conduct energy and mass balances at different scales.
• Describe tools for quantifying/estimating the availability and consumption of resources including energy, water, carbon etc.
• Search and critically evaluate the literature and compile an inventory of technology performance assumptions and associated CO2-eq emissions;
• Apply knowledge and understanding of Life Cycle Analysis, Carbon-Foot Printing, Inventory and Model development and build computational models to undertake this analysis
• Predict the potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of an action or decision.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of uncertainty and complexity in inventory development and modelling through the use of Sensitivity Analysis
Skills
Skills Associated With Module:
Mathematical model development
Core skills in underlying physical sciences, in particular physics and chemistry as applied to solving problems relevant to energy systems
Critical evaluation
Analytical skills
NAME CONTRIBUTION
Kevin Morgan Block 1: 3 lectures
Design workshops
Nathan Skillen Block 1: 1 lecture
Block 2: 2 lectures
Block 4: 1 lecture and design workshops
Peter Robertson Block 2: 1 lecture
Block 4: design workshops
Chunfei Wu Block 4: design workshops
David Rooney Block 4: design workshops
Daniel McStay Block 4: design workshops
Nicole Gui Block 4: design workshops
Jillian Thompson Block 4: design workshops
Illiana Portugues (Guest lecturer, QUB visiting scholar) Block 4: dedicated workshop on innovation and entrepreneurship
Summary of Lecture Content:
This module covers exploring the drivers behind the emerging hydrogen economy including challenges and opportunities, which will be used as the rationale and context for a hydrogen power system design project. In addition, the module will also investigate what must be achieved by lower TRL systems to further develop towards operational status. The module will be split over two taught Blocks and followed by a design-led Block (equivalent of two Blocks) which will incorporate project workshops with staff, dedicated workshops from guest lecturers and practical workshops (held at Belfast Metroplitan College).
Block 1: The hydrogen economy
This block will provide a background to the hydrogen economy, including a brief history and discussion on the core principles of the current and emerging hydrogen economy along with associated opportunities and challenges. Students will also be given the context at both a regional and national level to the primary drivers including policy development and the role hydrogen energy can play in achieving global renewable energy targets. Lectures 3 and 4 will be centred around relevant case studies which investigate the role hydrogen does and can play in key sectors.
• Block 1 Lectures:
o Lecture 1: An introduction to the hydrogen economy
o Lecture 2: Drivers for hydrogen energy (including international treaties and national policies)
o Lecture 3: Lecture 3: Opportunities and challenges in hydrogen energy; the transport sector and buildings
o Lecture 4: Opportunities and challenges in hydrogen energy; smart grids and energy distribution
Block 2: Advancing lower TRL hydrogen systems towards operational use
This block will further explore the emerging technologies described in Block 3 in CHE7204, specifically focusing on the feasibility of the systems to achieve higher TRL status. Students will explore the challenges associated with technology development across the TRL scale, especially at the transitional point between academia and industry. Within this, the lecture material will outline and discuss the key parameters which must be developed including catalytic and energy efficiency, potential for system integration and what level of industrial engagement is required.
• Block 2 Lectures:
o Lecture 5: The technology horizon for emerging hydrogen systems
o Lecture 6: Low TRL case study; the rise and fall of artificial photosynthesis
o Lecture 7: Medium TRL case study; advancing biological based hydrogen systems
Block 3 & 4: Design of a hydrogen power system (project work)
This combined block will be delivered as a design project-led element which will be supported by a series of workshops and tutorials. Students will be divided into small groups (based on final admission numbers) for carrying out design projects for a hydrogen power system. Students will be given a design brief and overview of the project which will allow them to utilise the knowledge and content covered throughout the course. Following an initial introduction lecture, this block will be taught via design workshops/seminars with involvement with staff who have already delivered lecture material. Students will be asked to deliver an elevator ‘Dragons Den’ style pitch to a panel of staff with the aim of promoting and selling their hydrogen system. Dedicated workshops from guest lecturers will be given that cover basic entrepreneurship elements including investment and impact. In addition, a practical workshop will also be provided to deliver hands on training and experience of a hydrogen energy system.
• Block 3 and 4 Lectures and workshops:
o Lecture 10: Project introduction and design brief
o Design Workshops: Allocated times slots with members of staff to review and discuss progress
o Dedicated Workshop 1: Design innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment
o Dedicated Workshop 2: Practical demonstration and training of example hydrogen energy systems (e.g. fuel cells)
Summary of Module Delivery:
Block 1 and 2 consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams and will be delivered over a period of 3 weeks (on average). Blocks 3 and 4 are based on project design work conducted by small student groups. A project introduction lecture will be delivered which includes the design brief and will then be followed by a series of design tutorials/workshops. These sessions will allow students to engage with staff who have taught on the course for specific aspects of their chosen project. Two dedicated workshops will also be delivered that cover key aspects of design innovation and entrepreneurship and practical training of hydrogen energy systems. The practical workshop will be led by QUB staff but conducted and supported at Belfast Metropolitan College.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module students will be able to:
• Describe the hydrogen economy and discuss the key drivers behind its emergence
• Provide an overview and discuss relevant international treaties and national policies currently in place for hydrogen energy
• Describe the role and relationship that policy development has with technology design and innovation
• Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of ongoing opportunities and challenges associated with hydrogen energy in transport, buildings and smart grid and distribution
• Discuss and apply the importance of assessing and critically evaluating hydrogen energy systems at different TRLs and describe what must be achieved for further advancement
• Outline key parameters on a technology roadmap to determine feasibility for deployment and wider applications
• Conduct and manage a design project for the development of a hydrogen energy system which incorporates the learning and knowledge delivered throughout the course
• Apply knowledge of operating a hydrogen energy system (e.g. fuel cells) and evaluate the key parameters which influence performance and scale up
• Assess and evaluate the key parameters associated with the design of a hydrogen system at a relevant TRL level and present those findings in a scientific report
• Deliver an elevator pitch based on the findings of project work highlighting innovation and basic entrepreneurship
Skills
Skills Associated with Module:
Core skills in underlying physical sciences, in particular physics and chemistry as applied to solving problems relevant to energy systems
Critical evaluation and systems thinking
Project design and management
Analytical skills
Entrepreneurship
Communication and reporting writing skills
Summary of Lecture Content:
This module covers current and future routes for the production and use of hydrogen and is focused on developing the underpinning science and engineering associated with each key stage of the hydrogen value chain. This will provide students with an understanding of what is needed to support the design of hydrogen energy systems. The course is split over four blocks which broadly cover catalytic, electrochemical, and emerging technologies, as well as hydrogen separation technologies.
Block 1: Large scale hydrogen production
This block introduces and covers the evolution of the hydrogen sector showing how this is produced globally at large scale within the oil and gas sector. Within the block students will gain a detailed understanding of reforming technologies including the core chemistry and engineering associated with them. Students will gain an understanding of mass and energy balances, catalyst deactivation and other key factors needed to clearly discuss, describe, and perform initial design calculations of catalytic systems for hydrogen generation. Workshops 1 and 2 will also be provided to support the content delivered in this Block.
• Block 1 Lectures:
o Lecture 1: Fundamentals of hydrogen; overview of categories and manufacturing routes
o Lecture 2: Introduction to current production methods 1; an overview of refineries, reforming, pyrolysis and gasification
o Lecture 3: Introduction to current production methods 2; environmental impact and challenges
o Lecture 4: Understanding the energy and mass balance 1
o Lecture 5: Understanding the energy and mass balance 2
Block 2: Electrochemical approaches
This block covers the principal scientific basis of electrochemistry with a focus on hydrogen. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of energy efficiency as well as electrochemical methods for hydrogen generation including electrolysis, fuel cells and basic battery technologies. In addition, an understanding will be gained on the importance of key concepts such as voltage, current density and materials design to support design calculations. Students will also explore the key factors which influence the efficiency of electrochemical devices for hydrogen generation and conversion. Workshop 3 will be delivered to support the content of this Block.
• Block 2 Lectures:
o Lecture 6: Introduction to electrolysis, electrolysers, and electrochemical hydrogen production
o Lecture 7: Industrial electrolysis - polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis
o Lecture 8: The efficiency of electrochemical devices for hydrogen generation
o Lecture 9: Electrochemical utilisation of hydrogen; introduction to fuel cells
Block 3: Emerging technologies for hydrogen systems
This block investigates new and emerging technologies for hydrogen production, looking at the key factors which are driving novel research. The block will provide students with the ability to critically evaluate technologies as well as evaluate emerging power generation, utilising photochemical routes as a primary example. The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) will be introduced as a tool for determining feasibility and viewing challenges associated with the selected examples. The content delivered in this Block will be supported by Workshop 4 and will also be further explored in greater detail in CHE7206 Block 3.
• Block 3 Lectures:
o Lecture 10: An overview of emerging technologies (including Technology Readiness Levels)
o Lecture 11: Catalyst development for hydrogen generation
o Lecture 12: Artificial Photosynthesis for hydrogen production – materials and feedstocks
o Lecture 13: Engineering challenges for photocatalytic hydrogen
Block 4: Hydrogen separation technologies
Within this block students will be introduced and develop skills related to hydrogen separation and recovery to provide hydrogen at the required purity. This is a crucial challenge and requirement of existing processes and a primary driver behind emerging technologies. The block will cover aspects of cryogenic separation, membranes, adsorption, and other existing and emerging technologies for hydrogen purification.
• Block 4 Lectures:
o Lecture 14: An introduction to hydrogen separation & purification technology
o Lecture 15: PVT diagrams and compressibility factor
o Lecture 16: Evaluating energy requirements of separation technologies
Summary of Workshops:
• Workshop 1: Performing design calculations for hydrogen systems
• Workshop 2: Calculating an energy balance for hydrogen systems
• Workshop 3: Calculating electrochemical efficiencies and energy loss
• Workshop 4: Will it work? Critically evaluating an emerging technology
Summary of Module Delivery:
Each of the four blocks consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams and will be delivered over a period of 3 weeks (on average). Blocks 1-3 are supported with workshops which will be delivered live (and recorded) and will provide an opportunity to explore topics in more detail and allow students to engage in discussions with staff.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module students will be able to:
• Provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of the hydrogen sector including the main routes currently used for hydrogen production
• Explain the significance of the manufacturing route and source of feedstock to determine the environmental impacts and benefits of each including challenges associated with emissions.
• Categorise hydrogen into the colours associated with its feedstock source and manufacturing route.
• Perform energy balances and determine CO2 emissions associated with hydrogen production technologies.
• Describe the scientific principles of electrochemistry for hydrogen production
• Describe and evaluate the electrochemical generation and consumption of hydrogen including electrolysis and fuel cells.
• Discuss electrolysis in relation to industrial deployment and operation including the key drivers and challenges
• Exhibit an understanding of emerging technologies for hydrogen generation and group them based on their scientific principles e.g. photoelectrochemical, biological, hybrid
• Explain photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical systems for hydrogen generation including artificial photosynthetic processes and the core scientific principles involved.
• Highlight and discuss the need for and importance of hydrogen separation and purification technology for an energy system
• Apply an understanding of phase behaviour and physical properties to the design and function of hydrogen separation technologies.
Skills
Skills associated with this module:
• Core skills in STEM
• Critical evaluation
• Analytical skills
• Problem solving and calculations
• Systems thinking
• Communication and report writing skills
Applied Renewable Energy and Low Carbon Technologies
Overview
Summary of Lecture Content:
Block 1
Topic:
Fundamentals of renewable energy technologies including wind, solar, marine, geothermal and biomass Staff TBC
Block 2
Topic:
Integration and evaluation of renewable energy systems with other current and emerging low-carbon technologies Staff TBC
Block 3
Topic:
Application of low-carbon systems to either retrofit existing, or design new buildings, factories and infrastructure Staff TBC
Block 4
Topic:
Economics and other factors for supporting decision making in the deployment of low-carbon systems Staff TBC
Summary of Module Delivery:
This module is delivered in blocks of 3 weeks (on average). Each of the four blocks consists of online asynchronous content with synchronous content delivered via Teams.
Learning Outcomes
Understanding the various options for deploying low-carbon solutions and balancing negative and positive emissions technologies to achieve net-zero forms the core of this module. Here we look at the range of options available and examine not only the individual technologies but consider how these work together in an overall energy/carbon system.
• Apply knowledge of renewable energy systems to the design of future buildings, cities and transport infrastructure
At the end of the module students will be able to:
• Explain key decision factors in choosing appropriate renewable energy and low-carbon technology systems
• Analyse and interpret data sets in support of low carbon technologies
• Understand current and emerging technologies and evaluate the related challenges towards their deployment
Skills
Skills Associated With Module:
Core skills in underlying physical sciences, in particular physics and chemistry as applied to solving problems relevant to energy systems
Critical evaluation
Analytical skills
Systems thinking
Communication and report writing skills
Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Engineering (e.g. Chemical, Environmental, Mechanical, Civil), Physical Science (e.g. Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics) or a closely allied subject. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines or relevant work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The deadline for applications is normally 30th June 2024. However, we encourage applicants to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 30th June deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.
Please note: a deposit will be required to secure a place.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
This MSc will equip you with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career in sustainability and the renewable energy sector. We have good links and regularly consult with a large number of global employers from a variety of sectors including energy (including Shell, BP and Petronas), transport (WrightBus) and other chemical industries (Seren Technologies and Johnson Matthey). Furthermore, we work with a range of local companies and start-up/spin-out companies including Green Lizard Technologies and NUADA. Graduates may also progress into research at various universities.
Employment after the Course
Where would you like to be in five years’ time?
Graduating from this course could lead to you becoming a project engineer in the design and development of components for low-carbon energy systems. You could also conduct environmental and sustainable impact assessments as a renewable energy coordinator for windfarms, solar installations and biorefineries. Alternatively, you might want to contribute towards the development of emerging technologies such as artificial photosynthesis through a research post or PhD. You may play a key role as a sustainable consultant for government in policy development to ensure the safety of new infrastructure for distributing green-hydrogen.
Employment Links
Achieving net zero emission is a global objective and therefore after your MSc you might want to travel and gain experience in places like Asia, South America or Africa. This could also be valuable for understanding the role you can play in achieving global Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs).
Employers who are interested in people like you include manufacturers (energy systems), construction companies, sustainability consultancies (local, national and international), government (e.g. Department for Energy and Climate Change), businesses that are transitioning to net zero, transport sector (public transport), the oil and gas sector, the pharmaceutical sector, academia and education and renewable energy suppliers.
Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
Please note the tuition fee quoted above is the rate charged per CAT, as the course is taken part-time. Tuition fees will vary depending on the number of CATS a student is enrolled on.
1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Terms and Conditions for Postgraduate applications
1.1 Due to high demand, there is a deadline for applications.
1.2 You will be required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the course.
1.3 This condition of offer is in addition to any academic or English language requirements.
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
How do I fund my study?
The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.
A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas (excluding Initial Teacher Education/PGCE, where undergraduate student finance is available). Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.