Articles
"As An Industry, We Must Become More Transparent about Our Environmental Impact"
Heidi Hammarsten
Certificate in Advanced LCA Simulation
Advanced Life Cycle Assessment Based on Process and Thermodynamics
A competitive Europe needs highly trained experts capable of addressing the constantly growing demand for raw materials. To that aim, it is necessary to have professionals trained in the most sustainable engineering techniques for the processing of raw materials.
Certificate in Advanced LCA Simulation contributes to the design of a circular economy by developing new designs and methodologies, improving resource efficiency, re-covering critical raw materials from current levels; and enhancing process design methodologies towards Zero Liquid Discharge of effluents and solid wastes. Additionally, the program focuses on the Ecodesign of batteries and the whole value chain from the perspective of circularity. The aim is to demonstrate the principles for more sustainable battery production, especially for the EU market.
The program supports the EU’s sustainable products initiative to make products placed on the EU market more sustainable. It provides product designers with knowledge and tools to understand how they can adjust existing material cycles and design new processes to optimize the environmental performance of batteries while maintaining their functional quality. Applications include electronic equipment such as computers, phones, and tablets, the automotive and aeronautic sectors, and sustainable energy-related technologies.
The program is designed and developed by Aalto University, Metso Outotec Finland Oy, TU Bergakademie Freiberg, University of Bordeaux, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd. VTT and Aalto University Executive Education.
Learning outcomes
During the program, you will gain experience in various commercial life cycle assessment (LCA) and thermodynamics software tools. The focus is on developing skills that can be applied in work tasks, extending theoretical knowledge, and finding sustainable solutions for industrial processes.
After completing the program, you will
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Understand the life-cycle of a product
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Understand what is meant by the circularity of a product and the expectations for product design due to the new Ecodesign directive
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Identify and describe the environmental impact of a product in a critical and analytical manner
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Defend and formulate ways to improve the circularity of a product
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Create a circular product, that is easy to repair, remanufacture, or dismantle and recycle
For
The program is targeted at the process industry and the battery and electronic equipment manufacturing industries. The program is well-suited for professionals with a background in chemical engineering, metallurgical engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, and material science.
The studies are also suitable for doctoral degree students specializing in these topics.
The program is particularly beneficial for professionals working on process and product design, consultant enterprises, and authorities in public administration in the EU. Their work can consist of, for example, process or product design, R&D, or production of HSE (health, safety, and environment).
Example participants include
- process engineers
- experts in modeling/simulations
- experts in environmental footprint calculations working in production plants
- experts working in sustainability assessment enterprises, and
- process technology providers
Before joining the course, participants should have basic knowledge of metallurgy, materials science, or chemistry. Understanding mass and energy balances, unit operations, unit processes, chemical reactions, material science, and sustainability is beneficial.
Program structure
The program has a modular structure, consisting of three core modules and two industrial camps, one held at the beginning and one at the end of the program. Throughout the program, participants will work on a case study, designed to support their professional development and help integrate their new knowledge into their work and organization.
All modules are organized either live online or in a hybrid format, allowing participation from any location.
The Industrial Camps are organized at our partner universities' campuses. In Fall 2024, the camp takes place at the University of Bordeaux, and in Spring 2024, at TU Bergakademie Freiberg. These camps provide a unique opportunity for participants to meet face-to-face. Networking is a crucial aspect of the program, as it can foster partnerships that may lead to innovations in products, processes, and business models. Hybrid participation allows participants to join the camps either on-site or online.
Modules
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the workload of the program?
The estimated workload of the Certificate in Advanced LCA Simulation is 6 ECTS, which corresponds to approximately 162 hours. With the add-on simulation module, the total program workload is 12 ECTS, corresponding to approximately 324 hours.
These workload estimations include all aspects of the program, such as attendance in live online sessions, assignments and case work, and independent study.
Who should I contact regarding travel arrangements to Industrial Camps?
After registering, you will receive additional details on the upcoming training days and arrival instructions. If you have any questions, our program team is always available to assist you.
Can I complete the full program online?
Yes, it is possible to complete the entire program online.
What happens if I miss a session?
In case you are unable to attend a session, please inform the program team beforehand. You will be provided with a recording or other compensatory materials.
What is the “add-on simulation”?
The optional add-on simulation module, organized by Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg, takes place between December 2 and 13, 2024. This module focuses on hands-on modeling and simulation of hydro- and pyrometallurgical processes. It offers a unique opportunity to enhance your knowledge of the HCS Sim tool and includes discussions on topics such as the Circular Economy, Critical Raw Materials Act, Design for Recycling, and Exergy. During the two-week module, participants will join live online sessions and develop a case study on a topic of their choice.
Are there any additional costs if I join the add-on simulation module?
Yes, the additional cost for the two-week intensive module is €650 (+ VAT). You can choose to join the program with or without the add-on simulation during registration.
Are there any prerequisites to join the program?
Participants should have basic knowledge of metallurgy, materials science, or chemistry. An understanding of mass and energy balances, unit operations, unit processes, chemical reactions, material science, and sustainability is beneficial.
If you are unsure whether the program is right for you, please contact us to discuss further
Program Fee and Registration
Standalone Modules
The following modules can also be taken as standalone modules. You may choose to register for one or more of the modules below that are relevant to your learning needs.