Project Info
Active Porous Supports for Industrializing Enzymes
Brian Trewyn
btrewyn@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Cobalt phosphate (CoPi) will be fundamentally investigated by tuning the structure and morphology and identifying the effect it has on the hydrogen peroxide decomposition activity that is observed on the material surface.
1.) Determine the effect that crystalline structure and porosity of cobalt phosphate (CoPi) has on the catalase-like activity of hydrogen peroxide decomposition. 2.) Fabricate and explore next generation surface modified mesoporous cobalt phosphate (mesoCoPi) materials.
These goals are important because they will directly test the hypothesis that a chemically active porous framework can protect enzymes in extreme environments to be utilized in industrial processes. These enzymes can be used to synthesize fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer better medicines.
https://chemistry.mines.edu/project/brian-trewyn/
Primary Contacts:
Brian Trewyn, btrewyn@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Organic chemistry with lab and biochemistry either previously or concurrently. Ability to work independently and understand chemical analysis results.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
55
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Inorganic and organic synthesis. Working with enzymes and biochemical techniques. Surface textural measurements.
MENTORING PLAN
Weekly meetings, presenting at group meeting, coauthoring publications, if results are achieved, a trip to local chemistry meeting to present.
Preferred Student Status
Junior
Senior