Physics of Sustainable Energy

Course manual 2024/2025

Course content

In the course Physics of Sustainable Energy we will bridge core physics concepts such as thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism with pressing issues in sustainable energy. Through a combination of theoretical principles on a diverse range of energy conversion/storage technologies and real-world applications, students will build a framework to analyze the impact of science on the energy sector and its societal relevance.

The course begins with a review of thermodynamics, solid-state physics, and QM concepts as they relate to energy production and storage. Students will gain insights into how these principles underpin various energy technologies.

Next, we will explore diverse methods of energy conversion and harvesting, including solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, thermoelectric, and piezoelectric technologies. The focus will be on the physical principles driving these technologies, with an emphasis on efficiency, durability, and environmental impact. We will examine a range of materials used in these technologies, from silicon and III-V semiconductors to perovskites and organic materials, highlighting their properties and roles. Case studies, such as NASA’s Voyager Spacecraft for thermoelectric power and the Horns Rev Offshore Wind Farm in Denmark, will provide context and demonstrate these concepts in action.

We will also discuss energy policy and discuss the physics of climate change and the influence of energy policies in addressing environmental challenges focusing on greenhouse gas (GHG) calculations and an exploration of the physics of climate models and predictions. Through discussions on greenhouse gas calculations and the physics behind climate models, students will gain a critical understanding of how energy policies shape environmental outcomes.

The course then shifts to energy storage technologies, covering batteries, solar fuels, and the science behind charge transport, electrochemical reactions, and energy density. We will examine materials that enhance the performance, safety, and sustainability of storage systems, with real-world examples like Tesla’s Gigafactories and grid-scale battery systems in Germany.

Finally, the course will focus on the study of nuclear energy. This involves understanding the principles of nuclear physics that drive reactor design and performance. It also includes exploring materials considerations, such as reactor materials, fuel cycles, and safety measures essential for managing radiation and high temperatures. A key focus is on advancements and challenges in materials for next-generation nuclear systems, which aim to enhance sustainability, reduce waste, and improve safety. Practical insights are drawn from real-world case studies, such as France’s reliance on nuclear energy and the lessons learned from the Three Mile Island incident, which underscore the importance of safety and innovation in nuclear energy systems.

Objectives

• Relate fundamental physics principles to concepts relevant to energy conversion and storage applications
• Understand various forms of energy conversion/storage with a focus on the underlying physics
• Apply their physics knowledge to practical exercises and real world case studies
• Understand how material properties affect the efficiency, durability, and environmental impact of energy conversion and storage technologies
• Apply concepts related to the physics of energy systems to energy policy issues, including climate change

Teaching methods

• Self-study
• Lecture

Lectures will convey new concepts with a focus on interactive engagement. Self-study will constitute applying the new knowledge to the exercises and, optionally, reviewing additional resources to activate understanding. Tutorials will review the exercises and offer the necessary feedback for self-evaluation and exam preparation.

Learning activities

Attendance

Programme's requirements concerning attendance (TER-B):

• Each student is expected to participate actively in each component of the programme that he/she signed up for. A student that does not attend the first two seminars of a course, will be administratively removed from the seminar group. A request for reregistration for the seminars can be applied to the programme coordinator.
• If a student cannot attend an obligatory component of a programme's component due to circumstances beyond his control, he must report in writing to the relevant teacher as soon as possible. The teacher, if necessary after consulting the study adviser, may decide to issue the student a replacing assignment.
• It is not allowed to miss obligatory commponents of the programme if there is no case of circumstances beyond one's control.
• In case of participating qualitatively or quantitatively insufficiently, the examiner can expel a student from further participation in the programme's component or a part of that component. Conditions for sufficient participation are set down in advance in the course manual.
• In addition to the above mentioned rules, in the first semester of the first year a student should be present in at least 80% of the seminars. Moreover, participation to midterm tests and obligatory homework is required. If the student does not comply with these obligations, the student is expelled from the resit of this course. Students in the double Bachelor's degree programme Mathematics and Physics are exempted from this requirement. In case of personal circumstances, as described in OER-A Article A-6.4, a different study plan will be made in consultation with the study advisor.

Additional requirements for this course:

Absence from lectures should be communicated to the course coordinator.

Assessment

The problem sets are due before the associated WC. During the WC, the TA’s will cover the solutions to the preceding assignment. Solutions will NOT be posted to Canvas. The problem sets will be graded and will contribute to 20% of your final grade. The two lowest scores (including any non-submitted) will be dropped. Problem sets submitted after the deadline will not be graded, excepting special circumstances, arranged in discussion with the course coordinator.  

A minimum score of 5.5 is required on the exam to pass the course. During the final exam, you are permitted one physical A4 sheet of notes, both sides, and you are expected to bring your own calculator. You may not use any electronic devices with internet connectivity (laptop, phone, tablet, etc.).

You may participate in the retake of the exam only if you have taken the original exam. If for some reason you cannot participate in the original exam, contact the course coordinator. The exam retake will only replace the 80% final exam portion of your grade.

Inspection of assessed work

For problem sets, this moment can be arranged independently with the TA's, after receiving the score on Canvas.

For the exam, this moment can be arranged with the course coordinator. Possible dates will be communicated at the end of the course.

Assignments

Problem sets will be assigned correlated with the course topics. It is allowed to work together on the questions, but each student must submit their own work, and expectations of standard academic integrity remain in effect. Understanding the problem sets will be a strong tool to preparing for the final exam. The problem sets are due before the associated WC. During the WC, the TA’s will cover the solutions to the preceding assignment. Solutions will NOT be posted to Canvas. The problem sets will be graded and will contribute to 20% of your final grade. Problem sets submitted after the deadline will not be graded, excepting special circumstances, arranged in discussion with the course coordinator.  

Fraud and plagiarism

The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl

Course structure

Additional information

The PoSE course brings together a diverse pool of students and our lectures strive to be mindful of such diversity and inclusive to all perspectives. It is also your responsibility to create a culture that supports a diversity of thoughts, perspectives and experiences, and honors your identities (including race, gender, class, sexuality, religion, ability, scientific background, etc.). A respectful approach will lead to the best possible learning outcome for all.

Contact information

Coordinator

• dr. C. Ramanan