Chemical engineers must learn to connect concepts across vastly different scales, spanning from molecular structures to industrial processes. Here, we explore the use of a virtual-reality simulation with a companion video of an experiment to help undergraduate students connect nanoscale fundamentals to macroscale engineering observations.

In this paper we demonstrate that using mixed reality (MR) technology can innovate our chemical engineering laboratory curriculum at Prairie View A&M University, a Historically Black College/University (HBCU). Particularly, we describe the development of a MR proof of concept to carry out a traditional fluid mechanics lab -- pressure drop as a…

Examples of applications of equilibrium-based methods for multicomponent separations usually require the use of simulation packages, which do not allow students to follow the involved algorithms step by step. Excel spreadsheets with examples of six such rigorous methods have been used with MSc students of Chemical Engineering of the University of…

The continuous distillation experiment in the Unit Operations Lab was moved to a virtual platform. Students used old data and equipment specifications to simulate the column in Aspen HYSYS. Students experimented without the limitations of existing equipment. For example, they studied the number of trays in the virtual column, something that is…

The benefits of using Microsoft Excel built-in functions in an undergraduate Multistage Separations course are analyzed based on 15 years of experience teaching mass transfer in Chemical Engineering programs at both the Bachelor's and Master's levels. Eight reasons for using spreadsheets in a Mass Transfer virtual course are given. Through the…

A virtual catalytic reactor laboratory (VCRL) experiment, which can be used in most browsers, is described. Students select feed conditions and use the VCRL to take data for a gas-phase catalytic reaction and fit kinetic parameters to a Langmuir-Hinshelwood rate expression. The VCRL contains instructions, equipment descriptions, an animated…

Simulation software has experienced growing interest in chemical engineering curriculums for its usage in commercial engineering practices. This article describes the ASPEN Plus® version 10 (V10) simulations and a student teach students approach to integrate ASPEN in the chemical engineering curriculum at the University of Kansas (KU). Videos,…

This paper reports an innovative, hybrid teaching model for a junior level lab course. This model leverages in-person lab operation by adding a student-led online learning mode. Both course outcomes and student outcomes were evaluated. Student feedback was collected, and its analysis showed both positive and negative impacts in this hybrid model.…