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Resources for aspiring chemical engineers?
Do you have any easy to understand books, journals, you tube videos, etc. that can help me understand the field more?
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8 answers
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
If you're studying chemical engineering, some great books to start with are Elementary Principles of Chemical Processes by Felder & Rousseau and Basic Principles and Calculations in Chemical Engineering by Himmelblau. For more advanced topics, try Transport Phenomena, Elements of Chemical Reaction Engineering by Fogler, and Chemical Engineering Design by Towler and Sinnott. Koretsky’s book is excellent for thermodynamics, and Chemical Process Safety by Crowl and Louvar is key for learning about process safety.
To boost your learning, explore LearnChemE for videos and interactive simulations. YouTube channels like Crash Course Engineering, Chemical Engineering Guy, and the Chemical Safety Board offer practical and easy-to-understand insights. Platforms such as Unacademy provide free live and recorded videos to help you understand tough concepts, while PhET Interactive Simulations give you hands-on visualizations for better comprehension. LibreTexts offers a wealth of textbooks and materials for deeper study.
Connect with chemical engineers and industry experts on LinkedIn and participate in events, hackathons, and unpaid internships to gain practical experience. Organizations like AIChE offer virtual internships and project-based learning. Online forums like Reddit’s r/ChemicalEngineering are great for networking, mentorship, and keeping up with industry trends. Stay curious, keep learning, and practice regularly. With these resources and a commitment to your studies, you can become a successful chemical engineer.
To boost your learning, explore LearnChemE for videos and interactive simulations. YouTube channels like Crash Course Engineering, Chemical Engineering Guy, and the Chemical Safety Board offer practical and easy-to-understand insights. Platforms such as Unacademy provide free live and recorded videos to help you understand tough concepts, while PhET Interactive Simulations give you hands-on visualizations for better comprehension. LibreTexts offers a wealth of textbooks and materials for deeper study.
Connect with chemical engineers and industry experts on LinkedIn and participate in events, hackathons, and unpaid internships to gain practical experience. Organizations like AIChE offer virtual internships and project-based learning. Online forums like Reddit’s r/ChemicalEngineering are great for networking, mentorship, and keeping up with industry trends. Stay curious, keep learning, and practice regularly. With these resources and a commitment to your studies, you can become a successful chemical engineer.
Updated
Jeffrey’s Answer
Hi Maame,
I'll focus my response around the future of Chem Eng and it's impact on sustainability for humans on earth and in space (quickly evolving). The following articles and videos may be useful to trigger additional exploration:
Chemical Engineering impact on our environment
https://www.aiche.org/community/students/career-resources-k-12-students-parents/what-do-chemical-engineers-do/saving-environment/achievements
Chemical Engineering for a sustainable future
https://cgu-odisha.ac.in/blog/a-journey-through-chemical-engineering-for-a-sustainable-future/
Good article about Chem Eng. and the impact on our future sustainability
https://www.thechemicalengineer.com/features/predictive-tech-part-1-chemical-engineering-and-sustainability/
Relevancy of Chem Eng
https://iar.ac.in/the-future-of-chemical-engineering-sustainability-digitalization-and-beyond/
Impact of Chem Eng on Space (waste)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5tVfDQEz9A&t=1s
Impact of AI on Chem Eng
https://www.valispace.com/ai-in-chemical-engineering/
Beyond these articles, you should get comfortable with AI and look for programs where you can master fundamentals in Chem E (mass & energy transfer, fluid dynamics, data analytics, reaction engineering, and process systems modeling -> key for AI)
Check out articles that discuss ways AI is being used for predictive maintenance, process optimization, simulation, and materials discovery.
(I can provide a few links but you can do a quick search on YouTube to learn more)
Jeffrey
I'll focus my response around the future of Chem Eng and it's impact on sustainability for humans on earth and in space (quickly evolving). The following articles and videos may be useful to trigger additional exploration:
Chemical Engineering impact on our environment
https://www.aiche.org/community/students/career-resources-k-12-students-parents/what-do-chemical-engineers-do/saving-environment/achievements
Chemical Engineering for a sustainable future
https://cgu-odisha.ac.in/blog/a-journey-through-chemical-engineering-for-a-sustainable-future/
Good article about Chem Eng. and the impact on our future sustainability
https://www.thechemicalengineer.com/features/predictive-tech-part-1-chemical-engineering-and-sustainability/
Relevancy of Chem Eng
https://iar.ac.in/the-future-of-chemical-engineering-sustainability-digitalization-and-beyond/
Impact of Chem Eng on Space (waste)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5tVfDQEz9A&t=1s
Impact of AI on Chem Eng
https://www.valispace.com/ai-in-chemical-engineering/
Beyond these articles, you should get comfortable with AI and look for programs where you can master fundamentals in Chem E (mass & energy transfer, fluid dynamics, data analytics, reaction engineering, and process systems modeling -> key for AI)
Check out articles that discuss ways AI is being used for predictive maintenance, process optimization, simulation, and materials discovery.
(I can provide a few links but you can do a quick search on YouTube to learn more)
Jeffrey
Updated
Hetal’s Answer
Here’s a quick list of resources for aspiring chemical engineers:
Books (easy to understand):
Introduction to Chemical Engineering – Kenneth Solen & John Harb
Elementary Principles of Chemical Processes – Felder & Rousseau (beginner-friendly classic)
Journals/Magazines:
Chemical Engineering Progress (CEP) by AIChE
Chemical Engineering World
YouTube Channels:
LearnChemE (University of Colorado Boulder)
NPTEL (IITs – India)
CrashCourse (for chemistry & related basics)
Websites:
AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers)
MIT OpenCourseWare (free lectures & notes)
Start with LearnChemE + Felder’s book for fundamentals.
Books (easy to understand):
Introduction to Chemical Engineering – Kenneth Solen & John Harb
Elementary Principles of Chemical Processes – Felder & Rousseau (beginner-friendly classic)
Journals/Magazines:
Chemical Engineering Progress (CEP) by AIChE
Chemical Engineering World
YouTube Channels:
LearnChemE (University of Colorado Boulder)
NPTEL (IITs – India)
CrashCourse (for chemistry & related basics)
Websites:
AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers)
MIT OpenCourseWare (free lectures & notes)
Start with LearnChemE + Felder’s book for fundamentals.
Updated
a’s Answer
Mamme - Ghana
Ghana uses Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
Find out how you can order those for each chemical product you use. Then expand to any products used in your city. Practice reading and researching those sheets.
It's really good to know about all the chemicals being used around you. You can work to understand what chemicals are used for what purpose, what are the hazards in storing, using, disposing, and mixing those chemicals with others.
This should give you some opportunities for curiosity to push you toward discovering more.
You have some excellent suggestions from others for names of books to read.
Very best wishes!!
Blaine - Oregon USA
Ghana uses Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
Find out how you can order those for each chemical product you use. Then expand to any products used in your city. Practice reading and researching those sheets.
It's really good to know about all the chemicals being used around you. You can work to understand what chemicals are used for what purpose, what are the hazards in storing, using, disposing, and mixing those chemicals with others.
This should give you some opportunities for curiosity to push you toward discovering more.
You have some excellent suggestions from others for names of books to read.
Very best wishes!!
Blaine - Oregon USA
Updated
Aulani’s Answer
Hello Maame,
I would like to share with you a very reliable book brand, books that are published by this particular brand, and a few online textbook resources where you may be able to find access to an ebook and other materials. This reliable book brand is known as, McGraw Hill. It is very well known and used by both educators and students. Also, this brand publishes textbooks with great focus on sciences, which is just what you need as an aspiring chemical engineer!
Here are a few books published by McGraw Hill, some of which are highly recommended for aspiring chemical engineers: Unit Operations of Chemical Engineering by McCabe Smith, Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics, and Introduction to Chemical Processes by Regina M. Murphy. There are a variety of books to choose from relevant to the field of chemical engineering. You may be able to find an affordable price of a hard copy or digital copy (ebook), whichever you would prefer. More affordably, there are a few pdf versions available online if you’d prefer a digital copy. Additionally, there are a few online textbook resources you can access and explore, such as, ScienceDirect, Jstor, ProQuest, and OpenStax.
If you enjoy reading like me, you will find yourself immersed in the great treasure of books. I hope that your career path will be inspired and find these books as a helpful guide as you navigate through your educational journey.
Best of luck, I wish you success!
https://www.sciencedirect.com/
https://www.jstor.org/
https://www.proquest.com/
https://openstax.org/
I would like to share with you a very reliable book brand, books that are published by this particular brand, and a few online textbook resources where you may be able to find access to an ebook and other materials. This reliable book brand is known as, McGraw Hill. It is very well known and used by both educators and students. Also, this brand publishes textbooks with great focus on sciences, which is just what you need as an aspiring chemical engineer!
Here are a few books published by McGraw Hill, some of which are highly recommended for aspiring chemical engineers: Unit Operations of Chemical Engineering by McCabe Smith, Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics, and Introduction to Chemical Processes by Regina M. Murphy. There are a variety of books to choose from relevant to the field of chemical engineering. You may be able to find an affordable price of a hard copy or digital copy (ebook), whichever you would prefer. More affordably, there are a few pdf versions available online if you’d prefer a digital copy. Additionally, there are a few online textbook resources you can access and explore, such as, ScienceDirect, Jstor, ProQuest, and OpenStax.
If you enjoy reading like me, you will find yourself immersed in the great treasure of books. I hope that your career path will be inspired and find these books as a helpful guide as you navigate through your educational journey.
Best of luck, I wish you success!
Aulani recommends the following next steps:
Robert Rossi
Many things! But mostly chemistry and chemical engineering
86
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Robert’s Answer
I'm not sure if you want to learn actual chemical engineering subject matter, or to learn what the field is about. This answer briefly explains what chemical engineering is, and I give it to you in my own words because I have yet to find something that is as honest about the pros and cons, yet brief, as this:
Chemical engineering can be something of a "gotcha" field, because how it is named is not consistent with other engineering fields. Most people assume that chemical engineers design and develop chemicals, the way electrical engineers do electronics and structural engineers do structures (but it's actually chemists who "design and develop" chemicals). Chemical engineers work on mass-production systems and scale-up. They design, develop, and operate large plants and highly integrated systems. Chemical engineering is the most interdisciplinary engineering field of all (save perhaps industrial engineering, which I don't think is really engineering at all: it's management!): the first two years of the ChE degree program are like a liberal arts in the sciences and engineering, but then in the latter half you learn how to size pumps, cooling towers, and reactors. It is very mathematical. The largest single sector in which chemical engineers work is the petroleum industry: refining petroleum, cracking hydrocarbons, and making polymers and pharmaceuticals, but some of my friends work in almost every industry that mass-produces its products, from computer chips and cars to soda pop and potato chips. One of my friends makes Depends undergarments, another makes Velveeta, a third makes laser printer toner. In most cases, a chemical engineer sees a production line through from start to finish: they design the production plant; oversee the acquisition, installation, assembly, and integration of the equipment; and then oversee the line (manage its operation and maintenance) for as long as it remains relevant. ChE pays extremely well and it is easy to get a job in, but you are on call at all hours once the line launches because you are the expert on the big picture, and get called when it isn't working right and nobody else can figure out why in the wee hours of the night. (Some ChE specialize in just design, build, or operate, though.) Research in ChE mostly relates to making production lines (and their construction) more efficient, in terms of speed, reliability, and economics. The vast majority of ChEs work for large companies.
To become a chemical engineer you will need a Chemical Engineering degree from a school that offers it, which almost always means a larger university. (The specialized knowledge of chemical engineering - the last two years of the bachelor's degree - are not available any other way.) You will need good high school grades, particularly in math and science, and will have to take (and truly come to understand) chemistry, physics, and calculus in college, if not before. The highest paid chemical engineering jobs are extremely demanding and rough - like managing an oil drilling rig in the middle of the ocean - so think carefully about whether the pay is worth it before signing on.
Chemical engineering can be something of a "gotcha" field, because how it is named is not consistent with other engineering fields. Most people assume that chemical engineers design and develop chemicals, the way electrical engineers do electronics and structural engineers do structures (but it's actually chemists who "design and develop" chemicals). Chemical engineers work on mass-production systems and scale-up. They design, develop, and operate large plants and highly integrated systems. Chemical engineering is the most interdisciplinary engineering field of all (save perhaps industrial engineering, which I don't think is really engineering at all: it's management!): the first two years of the ChE degree program are like a liberal arts in the sciences and engineering, but then in the latter half you learn how to size pumps, cooling towers, and reactors. It is very mathematical. The largest single sector in which chemical engineers work is the petroleum industry: refining petroleum, cracking hydrocarbons, and making polymers and pharmaceuticals, but some of my friends work in almost every industry that mass-produces its products, from computer chips and cars to soda pop and potato chips. One of my friends makes Depends undergarments, another makes Velveeta, a third makes laser printer toner. In most cases, a chemical engineer sees a production line through from start to finish: they design the production plant; oversee the acquisition, installation, assembly, and integration of the equipment; and then oversee the line (manage its operation and maintenance) for as long as it remains relevant. ChE pays extremely well and it is easy to get a job in, but you are on call at all hours once the line launches because you are the expert on the big picture, and get called when it isn't working right and nobody else can figure out why in the wee hours of the night. (Some ChE specialize in just design, build, or operate, though.) Research in ChE mostly relates to making production lines (and their construction) more efficient, in terms of speed, reliability, and economics. The vast majority of ChEs work for large companies.
To become a chemical engineer you will need a Chemical Engineering degree from a school that offers it, which almost always means a larger university. (The specialized knowledge of chemical engineering - the last two years of the bachelor's degree - are not available any other way.) You will need good high school grades, particularly in math and science, and will have to take (and truly come to understand) chemistry, physics, and calculus in college, if not before. The highest paid chemical engineering jobs are extremely demanding and rough - like managing an oil drilling rig in the middle of the ocean - so think carefully about whether the pay is worth it before signing on.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Maame!
YOUTUBE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJeWKvQD90Y
BOOKS
Here are some highly recommended books for chemical engineering students and professionals, covering essential topics and advanced concepts in the field.
1. Perry's Chemical Engineers' Handbook
This comprehensive handbook is considered a classic in the field, providing essential information on chemical processes, thermodynamics, and process design. It covers recent technological advances and is a must-have for both students and professionals.
2. Chemical Engineering Design by Gavin Towler and Ray Sinnott
This book focuses on the design aspects of chemical engineering, including process design and safety considerations. It is well-structured and includes practical examples, making it suitable for both students and practicing engineers.
3. Introduction to Chemical Engineering by Warren McCabe
This textbook offers a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles, covering mass and energy balances, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. It is ideal for undergraduate students.
4. Transport Processes and Separation Process Principles by Christie J. Geankoplis
This book provides a detailed understanding of transport phenomena and separation processes, essential for chemical engineering applications. It includes numerous examples and problems to enhance learning.
5. The Yaws Transport Properties of Chemicals and Hydrocarbons
This reference book is invaluable for engineers needing physical property data for various chemicals and hydrocarbons. It is widely used in the industry for process design and analysis.
SCI Journal
6. 100 Best Chemical Engineering Books of All Time
This list compiles the top chemical engineering books based on expert recommendations and reader ratings. It includes a variety of topics, making it a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge in the field.
These books cover a range of topics from fundamental principles to advanced applications, making them essential resources for anyone studying or working in chemical engineering. Whether you are a student or a seasoned professional, these texts will provide valuable insights and knowledge to enhance your understanding of the field.
JOURNALS
https://journalsinsights.com/category/chemical-engineering-journals-list
SEARCH ENGINES
SEE https://www.eetimes.com/10-useful-science-and-engineering-search-engines/ ALSO https://uri.libguides.com/chemeng/databases ALSO https://dcree.ucc.edu.gh/ ALSO https://edurank.org/engineering/chemical/gh/
GOD BLESS!
YOUTUBE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJeWKvQD90Y
BOOKS
Here are some highly recommended books for chemical engineering students and professionals, covering essential topics and advanced concepts in the field.
1. Perry's Chemical Engineers' Handbook
This comprehensive handbook is considered a classic in the field, providing essential information on chemical processes, thermodynamics, and process design. It covers recent technological advances and is a must-have for both students and professionals.
2. Chemical Engineering Design by Gavin Towler and Ray Sinnott
This book focuses on the design aspects of chemical engineering, including process design and safety considerations. It is well-structured and includes practical examples, making it suitable for both students and practicing engineers.
3. Introduction to Chemical Engineering by Warren McCabe
This textbook offers a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles, covering mass and energy balances, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. It is ideal for undergraduate students.
4. Transport Processes and Separation Process Principles by Christie J. Geankoplis
This book provides a detailed understanding of transport phenomena and separation processes, essential for chemical engineering applications. It includes numerous examples and problems to enhance learning.
5. The Yaws Transport Properties of Chemicals and Hydrocarbons
This reference book is invaluable for engineers needing physical property data for various chemicals and hydrocarbons. It is widely used in the industry for process design and analysis.
SCI Journal
6. 100 Best Chemical Engineering Books of All Time
This list compiles the top chemical engineering books based on expert recommendations and reader ratings. It includes a variety of topics, making it a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge in the field.
These books cover a range of topics from fundamental principles to advanced applications, making them essential resources for anyone studying or working in chemical engineering. Whether you are a student or a seasoned professional, these texts will provide valuable insights and knowledge to enhance your understanding of the field.
JOURNALS
https://journalsinsights.com/category/chemical-engineering-journals-list
SEARCH ENGINES
SEE https://www.eetimes.com/10-useful-science-and-engineering-search-engines/ ALSO https://uri.libguides.com/chemeng/databases ALSO https://dcree.ucc.edu.gh/ ALSO https://edurank.org/engineering/chemical/gh/
GOD BLESS!
Updated
L’s Answer
Maame,
Absolutely! There are some fantastic resources to help you dive in, even if you're just starting. I recommend using LearnChemE, a website that offers videos, interactive simulations, self-study modules, and virtual labs. It’s a great resource for visual or hands-on learners. It also supports self-paced studying where you can also quiz yourself. These tools help reinforce the concepts you learn and improve understanding through engagement, and not just passively watching videos. Another great resource is a book called “Perry’s Chemical Engineers’ Handbook”. This is a great resource because it covers a wide range of topics that will help you during your studies.
Best of luck!
Absolutely! There are some fantastic resources to help you dive in, even if you're just starting. I recommend using LearnChemE, a website that offers videos, interactive simulations, self-study modules, and virtual labs. It’s a great resource for visual or hands-on learners. It also supports self-paced studying where you can also quiz yourself. These tools help reinforce the concepts you learn and improve understanding through engagement, and not just passively watching videos. Another great resource is a book called “Perry’s Chemical Engineers’ Handbook”. This is a great resource because it covers a wide range of topics that will help you during your studies.
Best of luck!