Chemistry for Biochemical Engineering

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 11.02.2026.

Module identifier

11B2145

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

German

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

only winter term

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

Basic knowledge of chemistry is a requirement for a deeper understanding of bioprocess engineering. In order to impart this basic knowledge, matter is first categorised and the structure of atoms and the periodic table of elements are presented. The chemical notation and "stoichiometric calculations" are then discussed. The different types of bonding (ionic and atomic bonding, metallic bonding and secondary bonding types such as hydrogen bonding and van der Waals bonding) and the different types of reaction (ionic and redox reactions) are then explained. The chemical equilibrium and the law of mass action, the acid-base concept and oxidation and reduction are discussed. In this context, basic terms such as pH value, titration, precipitation and solubility product are explained. This is followed by an introduction to organic chemistry. Simple hydrocarbons, the functional groups of organic molecules, the basics of the nomenclature of organic compounds and simple reaction mechanisms of organic chemistry (substitution, addition and elimination reactions) are presented.

Teaching and learning outcomes

Lecture:
1. Categorisation of matter
2. Structure of matter
3. Periodic table of the elements (PSE)
4. Chemical notation and stoichiometry
5. Chemical bonds
6. Chemical reactions
7. Chemical equilibrium
8. Acids and bases
9. Introduction to organic chemistry

Practical course:
1. Preparation of solutions of defined content
2. Stoichiometric calculations, pH value, titrations
3. Redox reactions and chemical equilibrium

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
45LecturePresence-
15Laboratory activityPresence-
Lecturer independent learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
60Preparation/follow-up for course work-
30Exam preparation-
Further explanations

The assessments to be completed for this module include both a 2-hour written examination and a successful participation in the experimental work. In exceptional cases, an oral examination can also be scheduled as an alternative to the 2-hour written examination. Laboratory exercises carried out must be documented and analysed in the form of a laboratory manual.

Graded examination
  • Written examination or
  • oral exam or
  • Homework / Assignment
Ungraded exam
  • Field work / Experimental work
Remark on the assessment methods

The choice of examination type from the specified options is at the discretion of the respective examiners.
Students will be informed of the choice of examination type at the beginning of the semester.

Exam duration and scope

Graded examination
- Written examination: see applicable study regulations
- Oral examination: see applicable General Part of the Examination Regulations (ATPO)
- Term paper: approx. 10 pages

Ungraded examination
- Experimental work: 2-4 experiments

Recommended prior knowledge

No requirements

Knowledge Broadening

Students who have successfully completed this module have a basic knowledge of chemistry. They can deduce the properties of an element based on its position in the periodic table of elements. They are able to state reaction equations for simple chemical reactions and can carry out simple stoichiometric calculations.

Knowledge Understanding

The students can reflect on and evaluate simple chemical relationships. They are familiar with the basics of working in a chemical laboratory, can carry out simple experiments and can document and analyse the results of the experiments.

Communication and Cooperation

Students are able to present their results in a structured form, both on research into simple chemical relationships and on the results of laboratory experiments carried out.

Literature

  1. Skripte zur Vorlesung und zum Praktikum
  2. Pfestorf, R., H. Kadner,? (2000): Chemie.Ein Lehrbuch für Fachhochschulen, Verlag Harri Deutsch, Frankfurt
  3. Mortimer,C.E., Müller, U. (2019): Das Basiswissen der Chemie, Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart, New York
  4. Brown, T., LeMay, H., Bursten, B., Bruice, P. (2014): Basiswissen Chemie, Pearson-Studium, Verlag Pearson

Applicability in study programs

  • Bioengineering in the Food Industry
    • Bioengineering in the Food Industry B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Rosenberger, Sandra
    Teachers
    • Petersen, Svea