Carbon Capture Materials

Background: Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are porous materials that are able to capture greenhouse gases, like CO2 and methane. At the moment, my lab is working with a particular material called HZIF-1. We have identified that there are at least two side-products that can contaminate the synthesis of this material, both of which lower the gas capture capability of the material. We know some things about these side products, but we are still puzzling out the exact nature of these materials, and how can synthetic procedures be modified to avoid them. 

Goal: The goal of this research project is to conclusively identify these side-products, and figure out why/how they form.

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). 

Working in the lab: Typical time commitment is 3-4 hours per week (in return for 1 credit), preferably in an uninterrupted block (a full afternoon or morning). 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.

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.