

B-TECH in Chemical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Chemical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This Chemical Engineering program at National Institute of Technology Rourkela focuses on equipping students with fundamental and advanced principles for designing, operating, and optimizing chemical processes. With a strong emphasis on theoretical knowledge blended with practical applications, the program prepares graduates for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly growing industrial sectors, including petroleum, pharmaceuticals, materials, and energy. Its curriculum is designed to meet evolving industrial demands and sustainability challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong aptitude for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, demonstrated through performance in national entrance examinations like JEE Main. It caters to aspiring engineers seeking to delve into process design, development, and control within various industries. Students interested in research and development, sustainable technologies, or improving industrial efficiency would find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in core chemical industries, R&D, environmental engineering, and consultancy firms across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong curriculum provides a solid foundation for higher studies (M.Tech, PhD) or pursuing certifications in process safety, quality management, and project management, crucial for growth in Indian companies.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Science and Math Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding concepts in Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, and basic programming. Utilize textbooks, online tutorials like NPTEL, and peer study groups to solidify these foundational subjects, as they are crucial for advanced chemical engineering courses.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Peer study groups, Textbooks
Career Connection
This ensures a strong analytical base vital for problem-solving in later semesters and competitive exams, laying the groundwork for technical interviews.
Develop Strong Problem-Solving Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with tutorial sheets, past year questions, and competitive programming platforms (for basic coding). Regularly practice numerical problems from Engineering Mechanics and Process Calculations to build quantitative reasoning.
Tools & Resources
Past year question papers, Competitive programming platforms (e.g., HackerRank), Reference problem books, Departmental problem-solving sessions
Career Connection
This habit fosters critical thinking and quantitative reasoning, which are highly valued in industrial roles and technical interviews in core engineering companies.
Cultivate Effective Communication and Teamwork- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in communication skills labs and group assignments from the first year. Engage in college clubs or technical societies to practice presentations, technical writing, and collaborative project work.
Tools & Resources
English Communication Skill labs, Technical clubs (e.g., AIChE student chapter), Group projects
Career Connection
Strong communication and teamwork are essential for project success, leadership roles, and effective collaboration in Indian and global industries.
Intermediate Stage
Integrate Theory with Lab Practices- (Semester 3-5)
Pay close attention in Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, and Mass Transfer labs to link theoretical concepts with practical experiments. Document observations meticulously and understand the working principles of equipment.
Tools & Resources
Departmental labs, Lab manuals, Simulation software (basic level), Technical visit reports
Career Connection
This practical knowledge is invaluable for understanding industrial processes and for future internships and job roles in Indian manufacturing and R&D, providing hands-on experience.
Seek Early Industry Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for summer internships or industrial training opportunities after semesters 4 or 5 in chemical plants, refineries, or R&D units. Leverage the institute''''s placement cell, alumni network, and online platforms.
Tools & Resources
NIT Rourkela Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Alumni network
Career Connection
Early exposure provides real-world context, helps identify career interests, and builds a professional network for future placements and a competitive edge in the Indian job market.
Engage in Departmental Projects and Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in minor projects offered by faculty or inter-departmental design competitions related to chemical engineering. Apply concepts from Thermodynamics, Reaction Engineering, and Process Control to solve real-world problems.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Departmental project funding, Technical festivals (e.g., Innovision), AIChE student competitions
Career Connection
This develops design thinking, problem-solving under constraints, and helps build a strong project portfolio, which is crucial for standing out in placements and higher studies applications.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Choose professional electives aligning with specific career goals (e.g., petroleum, polymer, environmental engineering). Delve deeper into advanced topics like Computational Fluid Dynamics and Process Simulation.
Tools & Resources
Aspen Hysys/Plus, MATLAB/Python, COMSOL Multiphysics, NPTEL advanced courses
Career Connection
Utilizing industry-standard software and deep understanding of specialized areas makes graduates highly competitive for niche roles in Indian chemical companies and research institutions.
Focus on Capstone Project and Research- (Semester 6-8)
Invest significant effort in Project-I and Project-II, working on innovative solutions or research problems under faculty guidance. Aim for publications in conferences or journals if feasible.
Tools & Resources
Research labs and facilities, Faculty supervisors, Access to research databases, Thesis writing guides
Career Connection
A robust project demonstrates applied knowledge and research capability, significantly boosting chances for placements in R&D roles or admissions to postgraduate programs in India and abroad.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus recruitment drives, mock interviews, and group discussions organized by the training and placement cell. Network with alumni and industry professionals through LinkedIn and college events.
Tools & Resources
NIT Rourkela Training & Placement Cell, Mock interview sessions, Resume building workshops, LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
This structured approach ensures readiness for top companies in the Indian chemical and allied sectors, maximizing placement opportunities and facilitating a smooth career launch.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Class 12th pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and a valid score in the JEE (Main) examination. Admissions are conducted through JoSAA/CSAB counselling.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 177 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1L001 | Calculus | Core | 4 | Functions, Limits, Continuity, Differentiation and its Applications, Integration and its Applications, Multiple Integrals, Vector Calculus |
| PH1L001 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Wave Optics, Laser and Fibre Optics, Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Magnetic and Dielectric Materials |
| PH1L002 | Engineering Physics Lab | Lab | 1 | Experiments on Optics, Electricity and Magnetism, Modern Physics principles, Basic measurement techniques, Error analysis |
| CS1L001 | Programming and Data Structure | Core | 3 | Programming Fundamentals (C/C++), Control Structures and Loops, Arrays, Pointers, and Functions, Structures and Unions, Introduction to Data Structures |
| CS1L002 | Programming and Data Structure Lab | Lab | 1 | C/C++ programming exercises, Implementation of data structures, Algorithm development and testing, Debugging techniques, Problem-solving with code |
| EV1L001 | Environmental Science | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Control, Natural Resources and Energy, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics and Policies |
| CE1L001 | Engineering Drawing | Core | 3 | Orthographic Projections, Sectional Views, Isometric Projections, Development of Surfaces, Introduction to AutoCAD |
| ME1L001 | Manufacturing Processes | Core | 3 | Metal Casting Processes, Forming and Joining Processes, Machining Processes, Plastics Processing, Additive Manufacturing |
| ME1L002 | Manufacturing Processes Lab | Lab | 1 | Hands-on Machining operations, Welding techniques, Foundry practices, Fitting and carpentry, Measurement and inspection |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1L002 | Differential Equation and Vector Calculus | Core | 4 | First Order Differential Equations, Higher Order Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Partial Differential Equations |
| CY1L001 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Technology and Treatment, Electrochemistry and Corrosion, Fuels and Combustion, Polymer Science, Nanomaterials |
| CY1L002 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Volumetric analysis, Instrumental analysis techniques, Water quality parameters, Synthesis of organic compounds, Corrosion studies |
| EC1L001 | Basic Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors (BJT, FET), Rectifiers and Filters, Operational Amplifiers, Digital Logic Gates |
| EC1L002 | Basic Electronics Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Diode characteristics, Transistor amplifier circuits, Op-amp applications, Digital logic circuit implementation, Basic electronic measurements |
| HS1L001 | English Communication Skill | Core | 2 | Listening Comprehension, Effective Speaking and Presentation, Reading Strategies, Technical Writing (Reports, Emails), Group Discussion and Interview Skills |
| ME1L003 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Force Systems and Equilibrium, Trusses and Frames, Friction, Kinematics of Particles, Kinetics of Particles and Rigid Bodies |
| EE1L001 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits and Network Theorems, Single-phase AC Circuits, Three-phase AC Systems, Transformers, DC and AC Machines |
| EE1L002 | Basic Electrical Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Verification of circuit laws, AC circuit measurements, Transformer testing, Characteristics of DC motors, Safety practices in electrical labs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA2L001 | Numerical Methods and Probability and Statistics | Core | 4 | Numerical Solutions of Equations, Interpolation and Regression, Numerical Integration and Differentiation, Probability Theory, Statistical Inference and Hypothesis Testing |
| CH2L001 | Chemical Process Calculations | Core | 4 | Units and Dimensions, Material Balances without Reaction, Material Balances with Reaction, Energy Balances, Recycle, Bypass, Purge Operations |
| CH2L002 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Statics, Fluid Kinematics and Dynamics, Bernoulli''''s Equation and its Applications, Laminar and Turbulent Flow, Flow through Pipes and Fittings |
| CH2L003 | Heat Transfer | Core | 4 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchangers Design, Evaporators and Condensers |
| CH2L004 | Mechanical Operations | Core | 3 | Particle Characterization, Size Reduction Principles, Size Enlargement Techniques, Filtration and Centrifugation, Solids Handling and Transportation |
| CH2L005 | Fluid Mechanics Lab | Lab | 1 | Flow measurement devices, Friction losses in pipes, Pump characteristics, Fluidization experiments, Reynolds number determination |
| CH2L006 | Mechanical Operations Lab | Lab | 1 | Size reduction experiments, Filtration studies, Sedimentation and settling, Screen analysis, Cyclone separator performance |
| OE2L001 | OPEN ELECTIVE-I | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH2L007 | Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineering | Core | 4 | Laws of Thermodynamics, PVT Behavior of Fluids, Heat Effects and Phase Transitions, Chemical Reaction Equilibria, Refrigeration and Liquefaction |
| CH2L008 | Mass Transfer-I | Core | 4 | Molecular and Eddy Diffusion, Interphase Mass Transfer, Gas Absorption Operations, Distillation Principles and Design, Packed and Plate Towers |
| CH2L009 | Chemical Reaction Engineering-I | Core | 4 | Reaction Kinetics and Rate Laws, Batch Reactors Design, Ideal Reactors (CSTR, PFR), Multiple Reactions, Residence Time Distribution |
| CH2L010 | Process Instrumentation and Control | Core | 4 | Measurement Principles and Devices, Transducers and Transmitters, Control Systems Components, PID Controllers and Tuning, Process Dynamics and Stability Analysis |
| CH2L011 | Materials Science and Engineering | Core | 3 | Atomic and Crystalline Structures, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Phase Diagrams and Transformations, Ceramics and Glasses, Polymers and Composites |
| CH2L012 | Heat Transfer Lab | Lab | 1 | Thermal conductivity measurement, Convective heat transfer studies, Radiation heat transfer experiments, Heat exchanger performance, Boiling and condensation phenomena |
| CH2L013 | Process Instrumentation and Control Lab | Lab | 1 | Calibration of process instruments, Controller tuning methods, Process response analysis, Introduction to DCS/PLC, Feedback control loop experiments |
| HS2L001 | HUMANITIES ELECTIVE-I | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH3L001 | Mass Transfer-II | Core | 4 | Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Solid-Liquid Extraction, Adsorption Operations, Ion Exchange, Membrane Separations and Drying |
| CH3L002 | Chemical Reaction Engineering-II | Core | 4 | Non-Ideal Reactors, Heterogeneous Catalysis, Catalyst Design and Deactivation, Multiphase Reactors, Biochemical Reactors |
| CH3L003 | Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | Solution Thermodynamics, Fugacity and Activity Coefficients, Excess Properties of Mixtures, Phase Equilibria in Mixtures, Chemical Plant Design and Economics |
| CH3L004 | Chemical Technology | Core | 4 | Fertilizer Industries, Sulphuric Acid and Chlor-Alkali, Petroleum Refining Processes, Polymer Industries, Sugar and Fermentation Industries |
| CH3L005 | Process System Engineering | Core | 3 | Process Synthesis and Design, Process Optimization Techniques, Economic Analysis of Projects, Process Safety and Risk Analysis, Introduction to Process Simulation Tools |
| CH3L006 | Chemical Technology Lab | Lab | 1 | Production of industrial chemicals (e.g., soap), Quality control tests for chemicals, Process parameter optimization, Characterization of industrial products, Safety procedures in chemical labs |
| CH3L007 | Mass Transfer Lab | Lab | 1 | Distillation column operation, Gas absorption studies, Liquid-liquid extraction experiments, Drying curve determination, Adsorption isotherm measurement |
| PE3L001 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-I | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH3L008 | Process Design and Economics | Core | 4 | Capital Cost Estimation, Operating Cost Estimation, Profitability Analysis Techniques, Project Evaluation and Feasibility, Cost Optimization in Chemical Plants |
| CH3L009 | Environmental Chemical Engineering | Core | 4 | Air Pollution Control Technologies, Water Pollution Control and Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Industrial Ecology and Waste Minimization, Green Chemistry and Sustainable Processes |
| CH3L010 | Polymer Science and Engineering | Core | 4 | Polymerization Mechanisms, Polymer Characterization Techniques, Polymer Rheology, Polymer Processing Methods, Elastomers and Biopolymers |
| CH3L011 | Transport Phenomena | Core | 4 | Momentum Transport (Viscosity), Energy Transport (Thermal Conductivity), Mass Transport (Diffusion), Analogies between Transport Phenomena, Dimensional Analysis and Boundary Layers |
| CH3L012 | Chemical Reaction Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Batch reactor kinetics studies, CSTR and PFR performance, Effect of temperature on reaction rate, Catalyst performance evaluation, Determination of reaction order |
| CH3L013 | Process Simulation Lab | Lab | 1 | Introduction to Aspen Hysys/Plus, Steady-state simulation of unit operations, Process flowsheet development, Heat and mass balance calculations, Optimization using simulation tools |
| PE3L002 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-II | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
| OE3L001 | OPEN ELECTIVE-II | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH4L001 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Core | 4 | Finite Difference and Finite Volume Methods, Navier-Stokes Equations, Turbulence Models, Grid Generation and Discretization, Introduction to CFD Software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent) |
| CH4L002 | Colloids and Interfacial Engineering | Core | 4 | Surface Tension and Interfacial Phenomena, Adsorption at Interfaces, Emulsions, Foams, and Suspensions, Micelles and Vesicles, Rheology of Dispersions |
| CH4L003 | Professional Practice and Ethics | Core | 2 | Ethical Theories in Engineering, Codes of Professional Conduct, Legal Aspects of Engineering Practice, Intellectual Property Rights, Effective Communication and Teamwork |
| CH4L004 | Project-I | Project | 3 | Problem identification and definition, Literature review and data collection, Methodology development, Experimental design/simulation setup, Preliminary data analysis and reporting |
| PE4L001 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-III | Elective | 3 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
| PE4L002 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-IV | Elective | 3 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
| OE4L001 | OPEN ELECTIVE-III | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
| OE4L002 | OPEN ELECTIVE-IV | Elective | 2 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH4L005 | Project-II | Project | 8 | Detailed project execution and experimentation, Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Comprehensive thesis writing, Presentation of findings, Viva-voce examination |
| CH4L006 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Core | 4 | Review of core chemical engineering concepts, Problem-solving abilities across disciplines, Communication and presentation skills, General knowledge in chemical engineering, Application of theoretical knowledge |
| PE4L003 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-V | Elective | 4 | Content varies based on chosen elective |
| PE4L004 | PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVE-VI | Elective | 4 | Content varies based on chosen elective |




