REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS

• Novel Approach to Alternative Energy: Marine Sediment Microbial Photovoltaic Cell
• Analyzing Dye Composition Using FTIR-ATR Microscopy and UV-Vis Spectrometry
• The Cultivation of Algae for Oil Generation and Biodiesel Synthesis
• The Application of Quantum Dots as pH-Sensitive Probes

SPECIALIZED
EQUIPMENT

ChemBioDraw Ultra 8.0

Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectrometer (FT-IR), Model 380; with ATR and diamond-tip ATR accessories

Mel-Temp Melting Point Apparatus

Microscale Organic Chemistry Glassware

Refractometer, Model Abbe 3L

Spectrofluorophotometer, Model RF-1501

UV/Vis Spectrophotometer, Model UV-2401PC

Visible Spectrometers (Spectronic 20D+)

CONTRIBUTORS

Dominion Education Foundation

ExxonMobil

Lockheed Martin

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – InvenTeam Program

Northrop Grumman

Chemical Analysis

Focus:

The Chemical Analysis Laboratory integrates many aspects of chemistry, including inorganic and organic synthesis and characterization, kinetics, thermodynamics, chemical nanotechnology, utilization of instrumentation such as Fluorescence, Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Ultraviolet and Visible Spectroscopy, as well as instrumentation development. Additional project work includes applications to current environmental issues such as the development of water monitoring devices, chemical recycling, biodegradable plastic synthesis and degradation, and chemical/biochemical optimization of fuel cells. Such skills and experiences are valuable for those interested in pursuing careers in the natural and physical sciences or areas such as medicine.