What is the main focus of a chemical engineer?

The primary role of a chemical engineer is centered around the development of large-scale processes that convert raw materials into valuable products. This involves a deep understanding of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics, allowing chemical engineers to design processes that optimize efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Such processes can include methods for producing chemicals, fuel, food, pharmaceuticals, and other materials.

Chemical engineers work on scaling up processes from laboratory experiments to full industrial production. They engage in the design of equipment, ensuring that reactions and separations are performed economically and safely. This focus on large-scale processing is fundamental to many industries, making their work crucial for producing a wide array of essential goods and materials that society depends on every day.