Project Info
Fundamental studies of PFAs adsorption to porous media
Brian Trewyn
btrewyn@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
This is a fundamental research project analyzing the interactions of PFA molecules with porous inorganic media. Our goals are to analyze the kinetics of adsorption using 19F NMR identifying how long it takes for contaminant molecules to adsorb to porous media and see if we can design an adsorbent that is size-selective for PFAs. We will also chemically modify the porous media to investigate chemical interactions that can dictate the adsorption kinetics. These goals are important because the fundamental knowledge gained from these experiments will be used to design next generation photocatalysts for PFAs degradation.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Provide access to clean water.
https://chemistry.mines.edu/project/trewyn-brian/
Primary Contacts:
Brian Trewyn, btrewyn@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Self-drive, thick skin, ability to follow protocols and decipher chemical data.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
50
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Inorganic synthesis, understanding and deciphering NMR spectra, chemical analysis.
MENTORING PLAN
Weekly meetings reviewing results and experiments. Expected presentations at group meetings. Working closely with graduate students. Coauthoring peer-reviewed publications.
Preferred Student Status
Sophomore
Junior
Senior