Project Info
Hydrothermal destruction of fluoro-organic contaminants – optimization and reactor design
Timothy Strathmann
strthmnn@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
This project will contribute to a larger effort to advance an innovative technology for treatment of PFAS "Forever Chemical" contaminants. The technology, Hydrothermal Alkaline Treatment (HALT) is recently patented. Here, we will examine how treatment conditions affect the destruction of important fluoro-organic pollutants that are increasingly being detected in waste streams due their ubiquitous use in consumer and industrial products. The MURF scholar may also contribute to redesign of reactor systems, so experience with machine shop is a plus.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Provide access to clean water.
Strathmanngroup.com
Primary Contacts:
Timothy Strathmann, strthmnn@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Undergraduates majoring in chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, or chemistry. Experience in wet chemistry laboratory at the college level. Experience with machine shop work is a bonus.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
4-6
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Laboratory experience relevant to the field of environmental engineering. Analysis of experimental chemical data, including reaction yields and kinetics.
MENTORING PLAN
Student will be mentored by the PI (Prof. Strathmann) and a graduate student mentor (TBD). The graduate student mentor will provide day-to-day guidance, and MURF fellow will also meet regularly with Prof. Strathmann to discuss results from work completed and make plans for upcoming experiments.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Freshman
Sophomore