About this event

The engineering skills used in techno-economic modeling (TEM) -- process design, process modeling, equipment sizing and cost estimation -- all are familar to chemical and bioprocess engineers. The practice of bringing them together in a cohesive and usable model, however, is not. Chemical engineer Chris Burk, PE, will talk about that integration in this seminar. Related topics include:

• using TEM to quantify uncertainty, guide R&D priorities and communicate with stakeholders
• working creatively through uncertainty
• applying a software development mindset to Excel-based modeling
• TEM as a core chemical engineering skill, not a business or finance add-on

Chris Burk is a practicing chemical engineer and founder of Burk TechnoEconomics, a consulting firm specializing in TEM for early-stage chemical, bioprocess and energy technologies. Over the past 10 years, he and his team have developed models for more than 150 technologies spanning a wide range of industries. He has taught and mentored extensively through such organizations as Activate, the Engine and Stanford Sustainability Accelerator. His book, Techno-Economic Modeling for Chemical and Bioprocess Innovations (Wiley, 2025) is the first comprehensive treatment of the subject.

Additional information

• Attendance type: In person
• Cost: Free
• Event type: Lectures & Seminars