Carbon Capture Materials

Background: Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are porous materials that are able to capture greenhouse gases, like CO2 and methane. We are particularly interested in "hybrid" MOFs, which contain small inorganic ions in their structure. These inorganic ions tend to interact strongly with molecules like CO2, tending to make the material highly selective at capturing greenhouse gases.

Goal: The goal of this research project is to synthesize new MOFs, characterize their structure, and preliminarily determine their gas-capture capabilities.

What will you do? This project will involve inorganic synthesis and characterization of the products using Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and potentially Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Preliminary gas sorption analysis will also be performed.

Working in the lab: Typical time commitment is 3-4 hours per week (in return for 1 credit). Ideally, you will need an uninterrupted block (a full afternoon or morning) in your schedule to work on this project. You'll be working in a small team (2-3) people on this project. Our lab regularly meets for journal club and for social lunches.

Want to learn more before you apply? Email me at chealy@g.hmc.edu or drop into my office (Jacobs 1207). You don't need to have any specific experience to apply (but preference will be given to those who have completed at least Chem 42 and are pursuing either Chem 51 or 56).

Essay Prompt: If you want to apply, please write a short introduction about yourself, and include (a) why you're interested in the project and (b) what you're hoping to learn.