Chemical Engineers: Beyond Organic and Inorganic Specializations
Chemical engineers are not confined to just organic or inorganic chemistry. Instead, they have comprehensive training in both areas, allowing them to specialize based on their interests and professional goals. This versatility is what makes chemical engineering a dynamic and multidisciplinary field. In this article, we will explore the role of chemical engineers, their training, and their areas of specialization, dispelling the myth that they are strictly organic or inorganic chemists.
Chemical Engineers: Processing Both Organic and Inorganic Materials
As my professor, Dr. Salt, once explained (no kidding, that’s his real name!): chemical engineers address fundamental questions related to chemical processes. The two basic questions they often ask are:
Given a specified process duty, what are the equipment specifications required to perform that duty? Given specified equipment, what process duty can that equipment perform?These questions form the core of their work, emphasizing the practical application of chemical principles to solve real-world problems.
Specializations in Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineers can specialize in a variety of areas based on their interests and expertise. Some common specializations include:
Synthesis of Organic Compounds: Focusing on the development and production of organic chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, polymers, and resins. Inorganic Chemistry: Working with inorganic materials such as fertilizers, pigments, and glass, where the focus is on the synthesis and utilization of these materials. Polymers and Plastics Refining: Specializing in the production, processing, and application of polymers and plastics in various industries. Fuel and Energy: Engaging in the refining and processing of oil and gas, as well as the development of alternative energy sources. Food Engineering: Applying chemical principles to food processing, preservation, and quality control. Pharmaceuticals: Developing and producing drugs and pharmaceutical products through a series of chemical processes. Nuclear Chemistry: Working with radioactive materials and processes in nuclear industries and facilities. Geochemistry: Investigating the chemical composition of earth materials, including soil, rock, and mineral deposits.Historical Context and Tools of the Trade
Looking back to the mid-1960s, when I was an undergraduate in chemistry, the landscape was different. Chemical engineering students often wore large, leather-holstered slide rules on their hips. This was a testament to their focus on chemical processes and their need for precise calculations. Interestingly, these students were interested in both organic and inorganic chemistry, indicating a broader scope in their field of study.
It’s important to note that a bonafide chemical engineer may contradict some of the views expressed here. For further reading on this topic, I recommend exploring some of the numerous books available on chemical engineering. You may also find it enriching to delve into these texts, as summarizing all the details in a single article would be impractical.