Engineering Commons^™

Continuous, Passive Liquid-Liquid Extraction And Emulsion Separation Within Microfluidic And Millifluidic Devices, Janet Tesfai

Master’s Theses

Liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) is a method used to separate compounds based on their relative activity in two immiscible phases. By significantly reducing the scale of liquid-liquid extraction to the micro- and milli-fluidic levels, this separation process can bemade suitable for low volume, high value materials.

Cfd Modeling Of Entrance And Exit Geometries Of A Wind Speed Accelerator., David Russ

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Current wind power technology is not economically feasible throughout most of the United States due to low average wind speeds. A design for a small-scale wind concentrator device suitable for use in areas of low wind velocity was tested using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Using a novel approach, the device seeks to accelerate incoming air above minimum velocities required for economical power generation. The novel approach employs a funnel shaped inlet with relief vents along the circumference, so as to alleviate backpressure. Both inlet and outlet sections utilize funnel shapes with both parabolic and hyperbolic regions. All geometry and mesh …

Extraction Of Butanol By Continuous Pervaporation Of A Two-Stage Fermentation, Kelly Meek

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Within this research a fermentation broth is used that has been developed first from the continuous fermentation of algal sugars to organic acids with Clostridium tyrobutyricum, followed by the continuous fermentation of the organic acids to butanol using Clostridium saccharoperbutylacetonium. The two-stage fermentation has the potential to increase the butanol selectivity from 60% by weight with the traditional ABE process to as high as 100% with the 2-stage process.

Conversion Of Algal Sugars To Butanol In A Novel Automated Process, Jill Ivey

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Phase I investigated a method for producing butanol from algae using a novel automated hydrolysis, fermentation, and separation process. The Phase I research team sought to experimentally optimize individual steps and parameters of the process, design and build an automated unit to produce fuel-grade butanol from algae in a batch process, evaluate the sustainability and large scale economics of the process, and design an outreach program encouraging energy and environmental awareness centered around K-12 students. The team used macroalgae samples obtained through the generosity of the City of New York from Jamaica Bay to test the equipment and viability of …

Clean Energy Water Disinfection International Environmental Education Design Contest, Howard Heffington

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Many technologies are used for water disinfection. Chlorine, iodine, and ozone are some chemical methods of water disinfection. Filtration, including microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis, is used to remove bacteria. In addition to chemical and filtration technologies, one can disinfect water using UV irradiation, ultrasonic treatment, electrolysis, solar disinfection, and slow sand filtration.
Currently, there are few solutions being employed in third world settings for communities. The current solutions are either for one household or are part of an existing infrastructure and therefore are not portable. Slow sand filtration is used successfully to provide potable water for individual households. Tablet …

Water Purification For Rural Communities Using Ultraviolet Light And Bleach Systems, Ryan Lee

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Many technologies are used for water disinfection. Chlorine, iodine, and ozone are some chemical methods of water disinfection. Filtration, including microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis, is used to remove bacteria. In addition to chemical and filtration technologies, one can disinfect water using UV irradiation, ultrasonic treatment, electrolysis, solar disinfection, and slow sand filtration.
Currently, there are few solutions being employed in third world settings for communities. The current solutions are either for one household or are part of an existing infrastructure and therefore are not portable. Slow sand filtration is used successfully to provide potable water for individual households. Tablet …

L'Oreal Waste Minimization, Caitlin Burns, Joe Baugh, Allen Busick, Ryan Black, Emily Evans, Matthew Margis

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

The purpose of this design project is to reduce the amount of waste being generated at L’Oreal’s North Little Rock manufacturing facility. To accomplish this, the design team visited the North Little Rock manufacturing facility to examine the areas producing the most waste. After gaining a detailed understanding of these areas, the UP1 production line was identified as one of the largest opportunities for waste reduction in the L’Oreal manufacturing facility. In the UP1 processing area, mascara is mixed in large mixing tanks and then pumped in to barrels to be packaged. The 2,000 liter and 1,000 liter Olsa tanks …

Algae To Butanol: Our Contribution To People, Prosperity, And Planet, Ethan Carter

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Phase I investigated a method for producing butanol from algae using a novel automated hydrolysis, fermentation, and separation process. The Phase I research team sought to experimentally optimize individual steps and parameters of the process, design and build an automated unit to produce fuel-grade butanol from algae in a batch process, evaluate the sustainability and large scale economics of the process, and design an outreach program encouraging energy and environmental awareness centered around K-12 students. The team used macroalgae samples obtained through the generosity of the City of New York from Jamaica Bay to test the equipment and viability of …

Design And Construction Of A Novel Automated Unit For Conversion Of Algae To Butanol, Hiroko Nakao

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Phase I investigated a method for producing butanol from algae using a novel automated hydrolysis, fermentation, and separation process. The Phase I research team sought to experimentally optimize individual steps and parameters of the process, design and build an automated unit to produce fuel-grade butanol from algae in a batch process, evaluate the sustainability and large scale economics of the process, and design an outreach program encouraging energy and environmental awareness centered around K-12 students. The team used macroalgae samples obtained through the generosity of the City of New York from Jamaica Bay to test the equipment and viability of …

Synthesis And Analysis Of The Antimicrobial Peptoid N-Lfb6, Allen Busick

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

The increasing presence of drug resistant bacteria has led to research of new methods to combat bacteria. A part of the natural peptide Lactoferricin, LfB6 (RRWQWR-NH2), has been shown to be effective against a variety of gram positive and gram negative bacteria. However, there are several problems associated with peptides. Peptides can quickly degrade in the body which causes larger doses to be effective. Large doses of some peptides are cytotoxic to the host. Peptoids are a class of compounds that can potentially mimic the function of peptides and circumvent the problems associated with them. The backbone of peptoids is …

Innovation And Development Of Biofuel Technologies, Nicole Lorenz

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

The need for viable alternatives to gasoline has lead researchers to explore various options for renewable energy resources. This research study focuses on two major options for renewable energy. The first is biodiesel, which is a fuel that can be made from vegetable oils or animal fats. In this study, biodiesel was made from tall oil, a paper byproduct. A novel reaction method was used, employing high temperature methanol rather than acid or base catalysis. The second option that was investigated is butanol, which is an alcohol with advantages over ethanol. First, a two-step fermentation was examined to improve the …

Non-Natural Protein Mimetics For The Treatment Of Alzheimer's Disease, Jennifer Herrera, Amanada Compean, Jasmine Brown, Melissa Moss, Shannon Servoss

Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slow degenerative disease that causes memory loss and eventually leads to death. AD is caused by the aggregation of the amyloid-beta protein, found on the outside of brain cells; once the amyloid-beta protein begins to aggregate it forms plaques on the extracellular part of the neural cells. To date there is no AD medication commercially available that breaks up the amyloid-beta aggregates. Current research has found that certain molecules bind to the amyloid-beta protein and prevent aggregation. The purpose of this research project is to engineer a peptoid-based molecule to stop the aggregation of the …

Cellulose Nanocrystals Properties And Applications In Renewable Nanocomposites, Esteban Urena Benavides

All Dissertations

Development of novel bio-based nanocomposites is fundamental to reduce the dependence on fossil resources and provide a sustainable future. In light of this global problem, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have raised interest due to their remarkable mechanical properties. Adequate design of nanocomposites requires a fundamental understanding of how the structure affects the mechanical properties of the material. However, contradictory results in the literature have revealed a lack of comprehension of this relationship for CNC based composites. Consequently, this work provides an explanation to unusual results for CNC nanocomposites presented in the literature and demonstrates the ability to achieve property enhancements in …

Predicting Homo And Lumo Energy Gaps For Organic Semi-Conductor: A Theoretical Study, Padtaya Pukpayat

Festival of Communities: UG Symposium (Posters)

This poster presents a theoretical approach for characterizing the electronic properties of novel electron-deficient organic semiconductors containing variety of electron donor substituents. In treating these compounds, the following questions will be addressed: What effects to the bandgap will each substituent have? Will any of the substituents lower the band gap to the desired range for solar cell applications(<2.0eV)? Can we use the current, inexpensive and tractable computational methods as a predictive tool for guiding future experimental design of organic based solar cells, rather than depending solely on experimental procedures?

Fluxes Across Double-Diffusive Interfaces: A One-Dimensional-Turbulence Study, Esteban Gonzalez-Juez, Alan R. Kerstein, David O. Lignell

Faculty Publications

This work is a parametric study of the fluxes of heat and salt across unsheared and sheared double-diffusive interfaces using one-dimensional-turbulence (ODT) simulations. It is motivated by the need to understand how these fluxes scale with parameters related to the fluid molecular properties and background shear. Comparisons are made throughout with previous models and available measurements. In unsheared interfaces, ODT simulations show that the dimensionless heat flux Nu scales with the stability parameter Rρ, Rayleigh number Ra and Prandtl number Pr as Nu ~ (Ra/Rρ)0.37±0.03 when Pr varies from 3 to 100 and as Nu ~ (Ra/Rρ)0.31Pr0.22±0.04 when Pr varies …

Capture And Sequestration Of Carbon Dioxide In Flue Gases, Surendra Komar Kawatra, Timothy C. Eisele, John J. Simmons

Michigan Tech Patents

There is provided a process for the capture and sequestration of carbon dioxide that would otherwise enter the atmosphere and contribute to global warming and other problems. C02 capture is accomplished by reacting carbon dioxide in flue gas with an alkali metal carbonate, or a metal oxide, particularly containing an alkaline earth metal or iron, to form a carbonate salt. A preferred carbonate for C02 capture is a dilute aqueous solution of additive-free (Na2C03). Other carbonates include (K2C03) or other metal ion that can produce both a carbonate and a bicarbonate salt. Examples of suitable metal oxides include several alkaline …

Running Head: Analysis Of The Just In Time Inventory System At Uhs Wilson Medical Center, Kyle P. Roeber

MPA Capstone Projects 2006 - 2015

In November 2007, United Health Services Materials Management implemented a Just in Time Inventory system to have a tighter control of their supply chain. This project examines the accuracy of the par levels currently employed by the United Health Services and the financial impact of operating a Just in Time inventory system using inaccurate inventory and par levels. In addition, the project researches other hospitals using JIT inventory management systems to compare implementation and management practices of JIT process.

De Novo Gene Synthesis By Rapid Polymerase Chain Assembly Coupled With Immunoaffinity Purification: A Novel Process And Workstation, Joel R. Termaat

Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

The de novo synthesis of genes is emerging as a powerful tool in biotechnology. The ability to synthesize genes of any desired sequence opens the door to seemingly unlimited research possibilities. Major advances have been made recently in de novo gene synthesis, with Polymerase Chain Assembly (PCA) routinely used to construct functional sequences from short single-stranded oligonucleotides. However, current PCA techniques are lacking in speed and fidelity. Additionally, substantial undesired reactants/products are present in the final reaction. A novel process and accompanying workstation has been developed that incorporates rapid PCA synthesis coupled with subsequent affinity purification of the synthesis mixture. …

Review Of Gasoline, Diesel, And Ethanol Biofuels From Grasses And Plants. By Ram B. Gupta And Ayhan Demirbas., Adam Liska

Great Plains Research: A Journal of Natural and Social Sciences (through 2013)

A new book on the production of biofuels by Gupta and Demirbas provides technical insight into the conversion processes that could provide a range of domestic fuels from plant materials to substitute for foreign oil. It focuses primarily on conversion processes for production of cellulosic ethanol, Fischer-Tropsch diesel, pyrolysis bio-oil, and hydrothermal biocrude from biomass resources, as well as "first-generation" grain ethanol and biodiesel from vegetable oil. In addition to a detailed summary of these chemical processes, the book provides a briefer treatment of related matters such as biofuel policy, economics, and environmental issues. The book does discuss the limitations …

The Solvent Effectiveness On Extraction Process Of Seaweed Pigment, Warkoyo Warkoyo, Elfi Anis Saati

Makara Journal of Technology

Eucheuma cottonii seaweed is a species of seaweed cultured in Indonesian waters, because its cultivation is relatively easy and inexpensive. It has a wide variety of colors from green to yellow green, gray, red and brown, indicating photosynthetic pigments, such as chlorophyll and carotenoids. An important factor in the effectiveness of pigment extraction is the choice of solvent. The correct type of solvent in the extraction method of specific natural materials is important so that a pigment with optimum quality that is also benefical to the society can be produced. The target of this research is to obtain a high …

Hemocompatibility Of Silicon-Based Substrates For Biomedical Implant Applications, Lingyan Liu

Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering Faculty Research

Silicon membranes with highly uniform nanopore sizes fabricated using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology allow for the development of miniaturized implants such as those needed for renal replacement therapies. However, the blood compatibility of silicon has thus far been an unresolved issue in the use of these substrates in implantable biomedical devices. We report the results of hemocompatibility studies using bare silicon, polysilicon, and modified silicon substrates. The surface modifications tested have been shown to reduce protein and/or platelet adhesion, thus potentially improving biocompatibility of silicon. Hemocompatibility was evaluated under four categories—coagulation (thrombin–antithrombin complex, TAT generation), complement activation (complement protein, C3a …

Producing Biodiesel From Microalgae Grown In Municipal Wastewater From Dover, Nh, Brian Mcconnell

Inquiry Journal 2011

No abstract provided.

Evaluation Of Silver/Graphite Ink Blends For Use In Printed Electronics, Sagar Satish Joshi

Masters Theses

Many organizations around the globe are actively involved in the research and development of printed displays, circuits, printed batteries, RFID tags and other printed electronics applications. The requirements for using printing techniques in the manufacturing of circuits are much more demanding than for conventional printing.There are many challenges that have to be overcome for successful printing and functioning of the printed circuits. These challenges are not only for the printing process and the substrates, but also for the functional inks used for printed electronics manufacturing.

This work focuses on gravure printing of conductive inks, more specifically silver, graphite and silver-graphite …

Circuit Design For Sensor Detection Signal Conditioner Nitrate Content, Robeth Viktoria Manurung, Aminuddin Debataraja, Hiskia Hiskia

Makara Journal of Technology

Circuit Design for Sensor Detection Signal Conditioner Nitrate Content. Nitrate is one of macro nutrients very important for agriculture. The availability of nitrate in soil is limited because it is very easy to leaching by rain, therefore nitrate could be contaminated ground water by over-process of fertilizer. This process could also produce inefficiency in agriculture if it happened continuesly without pre-analysis of farm field. The answer those problems, it is need to develop the ion sensor system to measure concentrations of nitrat in soil. The system is consist of nitrate ion sensor device, signal conditioning and data acquisition circuit. The …

Production Of Lovastatin And Sulochrin By Aspergillus Terreus Using Solid State Fermentation, Rizna Triana Dewi, Nina Artanti, Hani Mulyani, Puspa Dewi Narrij Lotulung, Minarti Minarti

Makara Journal of Technology

Lovastatin is an anti-cholesterol agent that was produced by Aspergillus terreus using solid state fermentation (SSF). During this fermentation process, sulochrin is also produced as an unwanted co-metabolite. However, our previous result showed that sulochrin had potential as antidiabetes because it is an inhibitor agent of α-glucosidase. In this paper, we reported our observation on lovastatin and sulochrin production pattern in relation with inhibitor α-glucosidase activity during eleven days fermentation of A. terreus koji (SSF) ethyl acetate extract. Koji obtained from solid state fermentation with rice as the substrate and incubated at room temperature, sample is taken daily for eleven …

The Zonation Of Abration Speed Characteristics And Its Handling Technique Of Jalinbar Of North Bengkulu As Vital Band Transportation, Suwarsono Suwarsono, Supiyati Supiyati, Suwardi Suwardi

Makara Journal of Technology

The Zonation of Abration Speed Characteristics and its Handling Technique of Jalinbar of North Bengkulu as Vital Band Transportation. Jalinbar Bengkulu is a vital infrastructure for traffic service, goods, agriculture products, mining, plantation and oils distribution. Abration due to scour of seawater often make these roads jammed and discrupts the peoples economy movement. The aims of this research was to investigate the abration speed of all segment of Jalinbar. The research method was a combination of two methods: A determination of swash energy of sea water using photometer and determination of rocks binding energy using douche method. The result shows …

The Formation Design Of Noise Reducers From Plywood, Foam, Tray, Dan Coconut Fiber For Static Sources, Melati Ferianita Fachrul, Wisnu Eka Yulyanto, Asharani Merya

Makara Journal of Technology

The Formation Design of Noise Reducers from Plywood, Foam, Tray, dan Coconut Fiber for Static Sources. Research was conducted in a semi-anechoic room using a method referring to the ISO 3745. The design used is the Hemisphere in which the source of noise is analogous to engines in an industry. The value reduction in the rate of sound power is obtained by comparing the sound power level before and after control is given. The noise control test materials used consist of layers of plywood, foam, fiber and tray (egg box). The effectiveness of these materials is tested by measuring the …

Optimizing Compressed Air Storage For Energy Efficiency, Brian Abels, J. Kelly Kissock

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Publications

Compressed air storage is an important, but often misunderstood, component of compressed air systems. This paper discusses methods to properly size compressed air storage in load-unload systems to avoid short cycling and reduce system energy use. First, key equations relating storage, pressure, and compressed air flow are derived using fundamental thermodynamic relations. Next, these relations are used to calculate the relation between volume of storage and cycle time in load-unload compressors. It is shown that cycle time is minimized when compressed air demand is 50% of compressor capacity. The effect of pressure drop between compressor system and storage on cycle …

Natural Gas As Petroleum Fuel Substitution: Analysis Of Supply-Demand Projections, Infrastructures, Investments And End-User Prices, Abdul Qoyum Tjandranegara, Arsegianto Arsegianto, Widodo Wahyu Purwanto

Makara Journal of Technology

The petroleum fuels (PF) subsidy has long burdens the government spending, and discourages less expensive energy usage such as natural gas (NG). Exporting NG and importing the more expensive PF products cause financial losses to Indonesia. The lack of NG infrastructure is the main hurdle in maximizing domestic NG usage and so does the perception of its high investment costs burdening government spending and pushing the NG transportation cost up. This study calculates the required NG infrastructure and its investments for several levels of PF substitutions up to 2030. To balance the NG demands, the supply from each field and …

The Synergy Of Recombinant Xylanolytic Enzyme On Xylan Hydrolysis, One Asmarani, Bambang Prajogo Eko Wardojo, Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih

Makara Journal of Technology

Microbial xylanases or xylanolytic enzyme have received considerable attention over the last years owing to a multitude of possible applications. These enzymes have potential in the biodegradation of lignocellulosic biomass to fuels, chemicals, fruit juice, animal feed and in improving rumen digestion. More recently, the use of xylanases as bleaching agent in the pulp and paper industry has been suggested to replace of some of the chemicals presently used for this purpose. Such applications could have an important positive impact on the environment. The purpose of this research was determining the synergy of 3 recombinant xylanolytic enzymes (β-xylosidase, exo-xylanase and …