Simulation-Based Approaches in Chemical Engineering Experiments

The virtual experimental simulation approach provides an effective means to educate high-level chemical engineering students with analytical and design capabilities. The proposed study analyzes the challenges in Experiments of Chemical Engineering Principles and existing simulation experiment software in most of the Chinese universities. In response, a reform plan was proposed that embraces a student-centered educational philosophy while emphasizing the guiding role of instructors. Based on this reform plan, a virtual simulation system was developed to enable the students to engage in autonomous, in-depth, inquiry-based experiments. The system offers efficient grade management tools for teachers and supports multiplatform operations to meet the modern educational demands. The system has been piloted and promoted across various universities in China with feedback from both instructors and students. Results demonstrate that virtual simulation software effectively supports the development of Experiments in Chemical Engineering Principles to train chemical engineering professionals.