Recycle and life cycle assessment (LCA) of products and processes

The course has two main objectives: 1) to foster a deep understanding of the computational structure of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology; 2) to apply this methodology in evaluating the sustainability of materials and processes. In pursuing these objectives, particular attention will be paid to defining and constructing systems of environmental impact indicators for use in the evaluation process. A significant portion of the course will be devoted to applying the LCA methodology to representative real-life cases. Training sessions will be primarily quantitative; no specific numerical skills are required.
1. Life Cycle Analysis and Life Cycle Thinking: Historical context, regulation, procedures, applications. Calculation methodology, databases, and technical software. Sustainability assessment: introductory concepts.
2. Eco-indicators: Spread of pollutants in the environment, measurement methods, environmental impact and damage category, impact quantification, energy approach.
3. Industrial Processes for Material Production: Case studies (e.g., Cement, polymeric materials, metallic materials, and ceramic materials).
4. End of Life of Materials: Open and closed-loop recycling, reuse, waste-to-energy processes, waste management processes.
This curriculum is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the field of sustainability and LCA. By integrating lectures, practical tutorials, and case studies, the course aims to equip students with the necessary tools to critically assess and improve the environmental impact of materials and processes.