Title:  Environmental biotechnology for a sustainable future

Hunter Schroer, PhD, PE
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 19, 2024
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

Biotechnology is an essential toolkit for addressing the grand challenges of engineering, including production of clean water, materials, and energy. This presentation will summarize a few biotechnology approaches across these themes. For example, how can machine learning be leveraged to understand and improve anaerobic co-digestion with the goal of diverting organics from landfills and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions? Second, can we engineer enzymes and peptides to degrade or detect per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)? The latest techniques in data science and molecular biology, combined with established approaches from other disciplines, are central to timely and impactful environmental biotechnology research that solves the grand challenges of engineering.

Biography:

Dr. Schroer is an Assistant Professor in Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering. Prior to joining the faculty at Missouri S&T, he was a research scientist at the University of Iowa and a consulting groundwater remediation engineer. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Colorado and earned a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Iowa. Dr. Schroer’s research is focused on mechanistic understanding and application of environmental biotechnology. His lab’s mission is to couple fundamental laboratory and computational approaches to apply biological systems for clean water, material, & energy production.

Title: Thermal Decomposition of Forever Chemicals (PFAS) 

Feng "Frank" Xiao, PhD
Civil and Environmental Engineering
University of Missouri-Columbia

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 5, 2024
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

In this presentation, Dr. Xiao will introduce recent and on-going research conducted on thermal degradation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals that pose significant threats to human health. We demonstrated that the thermolysis of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and GenX can occur at temperatures of 150‒200 ^oC. Three temperature zones were discovered for PFOA, including a stable and nonvolatile zone (≤90 ^oC), a phase-transfer and thermal decomposition zone (90‒400 ^oC), and a fast decomposition zone (≥400 ^oC). Thermolysis of PFCAs began with the homolysis of a C‒C bond next to the carboxyl group of PFCAs, which formed unstable perfluoroalkyl radicals. Dual decomposition pathways seem to exist. The addition of a highly porous adsorbent, such as granular activated carbon, compressed the intermediate sublimation zone of PFCAs, changed their thermal decomposition pathways, and increased the decomposition rate constant by up to 150-fold at 250 ^oC.

Biography:

Dr. Xiao is a tenured Associate Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of Missouri (Columbia). Serving as an Editor for the Journal of Hazardous Materials and an Associate Editor for the ASCE Journal of Environmental Engineering, he specializes in water and soil quality engineering, focusing on emerging contaminants and black carbon. Dr. Xiao currently leads a multidisciplinary team of experts, tackling fundamental questions in several research areas. These areas include: (i) understanding the fate and transport of PFAS within aquatic and soil environments; (ii) developing innovative, cost-effective technologies for water treatment and soil remediation; and (iii) creating new analytical tools for non-target identification using high-resolution mass spectrometry. Dr. Xiao earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota and completed his postdoctoral training at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. His outstanding contributions to the field have been recognized with the USEPA STAR Early Career Award in 2019 and the prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Award in 2021.

Title: Nuclear Energy: Clean, Reliable, and Secure

Joseph Newkirk, PhD
Department Chair & Professor, Nuclear Engineering & Radiation Science
Missouri University of Science and Technology 

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday October 1, 2024
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

It is well known that society depends on energy. Health, wealth, and life expectancy all increase with energy availability. However, there is growing concern about the long-term impact of energy sources which produce carbon dioxide and release it into the environment. Nuclear energy has always held the promise of producing large amounts of usable energy without significant impacts on the environment. While the cost of nuclear energy has gone up dramatically in the US over the decades, this has not been the case in other countries. Dr. Newkirk will present the case for energy, why nuclear is a major part of the solution to our problems, what is occurring nationally, and how Mo S&T is attempting to respond to the challenge. He will present his vision for a “PowerPlex” that will enable major studies of integrated energy systems and their applications.  Come and hear about what the near future may look like and have questions you may have answered.

Biography:

Joseph W. Newkirk is the Founding Chair and Professor of the Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science Department at S&T. He is also an Associated Faculty of Manufacturing Engineering, has a courtesy appointment in the Material Science & Engineering department, and is also a Research Investigator in both the Materials Research Center and the Center for Aerospace Manufacturing Technologies. He is a Fellow of ASM International and Alpha Sigma Mu. His education includes a BS (1977) and MS (1979) in Physics from Miami University and a PhD (1983) in Materials Science from the University of Virginia. 

Research interests include additive manufacturing, nuclear and aerospace materials, and also workforce development and the societal impact of technology and energy. He served for thirty-six years as a Professor in Materials Science & Engineering before joining the Nuclear Engineering department.  Prior to joining the faculty at Missouri S&T he was a Research Scientist in the Major Analytical Instrumentation Center at the University of Florida (1983-1987) and a Research Engineer at the Homer Research Laboratories of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation (1981-1983). 

He has over 200 technical papers and been awarded two US Patents with two patents pending; edited six books and contributed eight chapters to other technical handbooks and publications. He has been awarded several Faculty Research and Service Awards.  He has graduated over 40 graduate students and introduced over 50 undergraduates to research.

Title: Biological Strategies for Electrifying the Chemical Industry

Shelley D. Minteer, PhD
Director of the Kummer Institute Center for Resource Sustainability, Professor of Chemistry,
Missouri University of Science and Technology 

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday March 5, 2024
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
In the last 5 years, there have been extensive studies and new materials designed for interfacing biocatalysts with electrode surfaces for applications in energy storage, remediation, and electrification of the chemical industry. The talk will discuss electrode materials innovation for interfacing complex proteins with electrode surfaces as well as using them for electrosynthesis of ammonia as well as other value-added products (i.e. chiral amines, chiral imines, polymers, etc.) with a focus on sustainability in the chemical industry.  Finally, this talk will discuss the use of synthetic biology for microbial bioelectrosynthesis of ammonia and other value-added products, as an alternative to enzymatic bioelectrocatalysis.

Title: Destruction of PFAS in Concentrated, Complex Matrices in the Environment

Megan Hart, PhD
Associate Professor, School of Science and Engineering, University of Missouri - Kansas City 

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday September 19, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous in our world, present in all aspects of the human environment, and a potential threat to human health and the natural environment. First developed as a water and stain repellent, these products were utilized extensively to control high intensity, petroleum based fires as part of a blanketing, aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) that was used to extinguish flames rapidly. UV/SGM is a UMKC developed, patent pending, and licensed technology validated by the Department of Defense for destroying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) present in concentrated liquids, thereby allowing liquids to be reused in the treatment process or discharged to the environment. From bench scale to pilot demonstration, UV SGM has provided treatment possibilities for complex matrices of liquid or foam waste streams including regenerable ion exchange resin concentrate, foam fractionate, reverse osmosis reject, and neat aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). In comparison to other treatment alternatives at similar technology development levels, UV/SGM provided better removal results than currently marketed and commercialized technologies at a lower rate of electrical consumption.

Biography:
Megan Hart is an associate professor at the University of Missouri Kansas City specializing in developing technologies for treatment and control of per- and poly fluoroalkyl substances in the environment, as well as other emerging contaminants of concern. She is an internationally recognized subject matter expert for remediation techniques and applications. With multiple patent pending technologies, service to the Interstate Technology Regulatory Commission (ITRC), and subject matter expertise to the public and governmental agencies, Dr. Hart’s extensive PFAS experience extends beyond treatment into controlling and mitigating PFAS migration from impacted matrices to the environment. Megan is a registered geologist in the State of Missouri, has authored many papers in the area of contaminant remediation, partners with companies to tackle complex contamination concerns, and participates in over $4.5 million in PFAS research to take place over the next 3 years.

Title: Uncertainty-Aware and Explainable AI (XAI)-Infused Digital Twin Solution for Complex Systems

Syed Alam, PhD
Assistant Professor, Nuclear Engineering & Radiation Science, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Director, MARTIANS (Machine Learning and ARTificial Intelligence for Advancing Nuclear Systems) Lab

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday April 4, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
According to the US DOE and NRC, the nuclear industry has yet to take advantage of recent advances in artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) techniques. Digital Twin (DT) will play a significant role in risk-informed decision-making in this regard. For example, " NRC FY2021-23 Planned Research Activities" and "NRC Future Focused Research" state that "Methodology and Evaluation Tools for Digital Twin Applications" is one of the top priority strategic areas. However, the major challenges related to DT are (a) Incorporating trustworthy data analytics algorithm, (b) Treatment of noisy or erroneous data and data unavailability, (c) Uncertainty quantification,  (d) Robust optimization, and (e) Update module in DT by solving the "On-the-fly Inverse Problem." This seminar will encompass the ongoing activities performed by Dr. Alam's group on different aspects of technical challenges in DT-enabling technologies for nuclear systems in terms of surrogate model development, physics-informed hybrid ML/AI, uncertainty quantification with sensitivity, and operational digital twin framework.

Biography:
Dr. Syed Bahauddin Alam is an Assistant Professor of Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science at the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T). He received Ph.D. (2018) and MPhil (2013) in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Cambridge. Prior to joining Missouri S&T, he was a Researcher at French Atomic Energy Commission. He also worked as a MeV Fellow at Argonne National Laboratory and a Nonproliferation Fellow at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. Dr. Alam's research interests and expertise broadly lie in the intersection of nuclear systems, explainable machine learning, and computational materials — focusing on hybrid physics and data-driven analysis that warrants frequent excursions among the boundaries of applied mathematics and data science. He received the University Outstanding Teaching Award 2021 by Missouri S&T. He was awarded the Most Exemplary Graduate Fellow on "Nuclear Nonproliferation Fellowship 2017" by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Tech (KAIST). He was also the winner of the ANS Best Student Paper Award (ICAPP 2016), nominated for the Young generation/Student Award for Outstanding Paper (ICAPP 2017), and ANS Best Technical Poster Award (NURETH-16). For the continuation of an exceptionally promising piece of Ph.D. research, he was also awarded the Cambridge Philosophical Society Research Studentships Award (2017). His work has also been featured in the "ICE Business Times" Magazine and invited for a TV interview on Channel S (a UK-based TV Channel).

Resource Sustainability for Designing Materials Towards a Circular Society

Professor Bhoopesh Mishra
Illinois Institute of Technology

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday March 21, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
With net-zero in mind, the scientific community has made great strides in green energy over the past decade. However, developing green energy alone is not sufficient to address global climate change because nearly half of all emissions come from making materials. Hence, designing sustainable carbon-negative materials for tailored applications is necessary to overcome the materials challenge of the twenty-first century and achieve a truly circular society.

Converting biomass waste to sustainable carbon-negative materials via hydrothermal and thermochemical process conditions has emerged as an economically viable pathway for a regenerative circular economy by recapturing resources after disposal. Driven by my multidisciplinary background integrating basic sciences and engineering, my research has resulted in successful design of hierarchical porous carbon materials from lignocellulosic biomass waste residues. Further, we have used these scalable and affordable porous carbon-materials to design a range of products including 1) biopolymer-based crosslinked hydrogels for enhanced decontamination and remediation applications, 2) nanomaterial functionalized carbon composites for environmental (photo)catalysis and water purification, and 3) heteroatoms doped carbon for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in fuel cells.

Understanding the fundamental physical and chemical processes underpinning carbon conversion at multiple length scales is essential for optimizing a rational design of carbon-based products. Therefore, making distinct correlations between the precursor feedstock and the final products for a performance-based manufacturing is an important driver of my research. To this end, I employ a bottom-up reductionist approach using a suite of synchrotron-based X-ray techniques along multiple length-scales (e.g., XAS and XRS for 0.1 to 10 Ȧ; SAXS for 1 to 100 nm; STXM for 100 nm to 1 μm; μXCT for 1 μm to 10 mm) and their combination with other characterization tools (e.g., electron microscopy and wet-chemical analyses) to ascertain the structure-performance relationships in the carbon products.

This presentation will highlight the interdependence of the three pillars of my research – resource sustainability, functional materials, and material characterization within the framework of the design and development of sustainable materials.  

Biography:
After graduating from IIT Bombay (India), Prof. Mishra did his PhD in Physics from University of Notre Dame (IN, USA), followed by Postdoctoral trainings in Geosciences at Princeton University (NJ, USA) and Biosciences at Argonne National Laboratory (IL, USA). He has recently transitioned from a Group Leader in Chemical Engineering at University of Leeds (UK) to Physics Department at Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago (USA). He maintains visiting faculty positions in the UK and India. He has published extensively on the interface of Energy and Environment (>50 publications, >1600 citations, H-index 24) and been instrumental in raising over $10M in research funding. He also brings corporate credentials as scientific advisor and subject matter expert for Fortune 500 corporate R&D across Energy, Environment, and Chemical/Materials sectors.

Within-Neighborhood Spatiotemporal Variability of Environmental Noise

Maryssa Loehr, PhD candidate
Energy, Environmental, & Chemical Engineering
Washington University in St. Louis 

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday March 14, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Green Heart Louisville (GHL) is a multi-year study to reveal how environmental pollution and human health change after the planting of thousands of mature trees and bushes in a small residential area in Louisville Kentucky. Noise is among the comprehensive suite of environmental pollutants studied before and after the greening intervention. Noise pollution can contribute to stress and thus lead to adverse health outcomes. While noise studies in the literature focus on larger spatial scales, this work focuses on residential areas within a small urban environment containing railway, highway, aircraft flight paths, and a mix of land uses. In this work, I identify spatial and temporal similarities and differences in environmental noise within the study area’s small spatial scale (4 km x 4 km) and across four sampling campaigns in different seasons. Investigation of the frequency spectrum of environmental noise provides further insights into the similarities and differences of noise sources impacting the measurement sites. A showcase of local noise sources, such as airplanes and insects, will also highlight the diversity of noise characteristics across this study area.

Biography:
Maryssa Loehr is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis. There, she investigates air and noise pollution in the Jay Turner Air Quality Lab by designing, collecting, and analyzing urban field measurements from various meteorological conditions. Prior to graduate school, Maryssa worked as a Staff Engineer at an environmental consulting firm. Maryssa received her bachelor’s degree in 2017 majoring Environmental Engineering with a minor in Chemistry from Missouri University of Science and Technology. During undergraduate studies, she held leadership positions in many organizations, participated in a summer research experience about atmospheric sciences with Colorado State University, and was highly involved with the S&T bands and orchestra group: Kappa Kappa Psi.

A Two-Way Street: Opportunities for Research and Service-Learning Collaborations in Energy

Malachi Rein, Director, Building Energy Exchange St. Louis (BE-Ex STL)
Josh Campbell, Executive Director, Missouri Energy Initiative (MEI)

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday March 7, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
There are numerous resources on campus and in Missouri more broadly that can be leveraged to improve both research and service-learning opportunities. In this seminar, we will highlight 2 local organizations, the Building Energy Exchange St. Louis (BE-Ex STL) and Missouri Energy Initiative (MEI). The BE-Ex STL is an information hub for technical, financial, and business development resources for energy efficiency. Malachi Rein, the director of BE-Ex STL, will highlight opportunities related to workforce development, building energy efficiency retrofits, Justice40, and benchmarking energy data. MEI is a collective of private and public organizations that hosts collaborative conversations and provides trusted information on energy issues in Missouri and the Midwest. Josh Campbell will highlight work to bring together stakeholders on issues related to energy efficiency, energy infrastructure, energy economic development, and state energy planning. This discussion will highlight current issues for stakeholders (e.g., Inflation Reduction Act funding) that could provide a starting point for new research and service-learning opportunities at S&T.

Biography's:

Malachi Rein, Director, Building Energy Exchange St. Louis (BE-Ex STL), https://www.be-exstl.org/
Rein joined BE-Ex STL in September 2022. He has a B.S. in Architectural Engineering from Missouri S&T and an A.A. in Communications from St. Louis Community College.  He brings experience in facilities management, operations, and project management. Rein has a passion for creating a more sustainable built environment. He is a LEED AP BD+C and holds certifications through GPRO Operations and Maintenance Essentials and Building Operator Level 1.  A lifelong resident of the Saint Louis region, he firmly believes that our buildings matter and that we can empower positive change that impacts our balance with our planet and the lives of real people.

Josh Campbell, Executive Director, Missouri Energy Initiative (MEI), https://www.moenergy.org/
Campbell is the executive director of MEI and the administrator of the Show Me PACE Clean Energy District. For nearly twenty years, Josh has developed many successful diverse statewide coalitions while working with all levels of state government on a variety of legislative and regulatory issues. Josh currently sits on the US China Heartland Association Energy Committee, the PACE Nation Leadership Council, and the National PACE Administrators Collaboration. Josh received his bachelor degree in Political Science and Communications from Saint Louis University and his Juris Doctorate from University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Complexity of particulate matter and its role in toxicity: A look at military burn pit emissions

Dhruv Mitroo, PhD
Research Scientist, Veterans Research & Education Foundation of St. Louis;
Adjunct Lecturer in Civil, Architectural and Environmental, Missouri University of Science Technology 

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday February 7, 2023
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Particulate matter (PM) is the primary driver of air pollution. Its chemical makeup is complex, sometimes region-specific, and subject to atmospheric oxidation. Combustion-related aerosol, a common constituent of ambient PM, is estimated to cause in excess of 4 million deaths worldwide. For military personnel, combustion-related PM is routinely encountered during burn pit operation: a defacto way of waste removal in forward operating bases that saw its peak operation about a decade ago. Although military burn pit operation has largely ceased, a new generation of veterans is still suffering from exposure to its emissions. A constellation of illnesses is reported that altogether are not effectively treatable. This is, in part, due to a lack of scientific understanding of the pathway to pathology, which cannot be answered solely from a clinical perspective (e.g., cohort studies). We are attempting to complement the clinical data with experimental data. A key component in our attempt is linking how chemically and morphologically distinct aerosols result in pathologies. Our approach uses a bench-scale burner to reproduce aerosols with controllable and tunable chemical makeup and morphology, thus acting as a rudimentary burn pit simulator. The result is a ‘manicured’ aerosol, soot, which acts as a realistic mimic. We evaluated the toxicity of a variety of generated soots, changed systematically in morphology and chemical makeup, in-vitro. Our results suggest that both morphology and chemical makeup influence the soot’s toxicity. Our future research objectives seek to address cellular pathways through which soot causes toxicity. If achieved, our results could bridge experimental data and clinical data in the pursuit of therapeutics for veterans affected by military burn pit emissions.

Biography:
Dhruv Mitroo is a Research Scientist at the Veterans Research & Education Foundation of St. Louis, Visiting Scientist in the Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering at Washington University, and Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Dhruv has conducted research in aerosol science for > 15 years and applies his formative training in chemical engineering to understand how particulate matter affects the environment and human health through laboratory work. Dhruv's research has been supported by grants from the St. Louis VA HCS, VA-ORD (BLRD Merit Review Pilot Project Awards for Research on Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses), and DOD.

A systematic investigation of microplastics’ weathering, fragmentation, and heavy metals transport within the urban storm runoff

Maryam Salehi
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
University of Missouri 

2:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 6, 2022
315 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
A significant portion of urban litter is plastic which contaminates the environment and threatens ecological safety. The conversion of plastic litter into small fragments called microplastics (MPs) intensifies their critical risks by facilitating their transport via urban storm runoff. The relative importance of MPs delivered by urban storm runoff to freshwater resources is poorly understood, which limits the development of effective policies and management strategies. This study focuses on low density polyethylene (LDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as the main components of urban litter. The specific research objectives are to (1) examine the MPs’ physiochemistry alterations and fragmentation due to the accelerated photodegradation and mechanical weathering experiments, and (2) investigate the link between MPs environmental weathering and their heavy metals transport through storm runoff. For this purpose, UVB exposure experiments were conducted to study the accelerated photodegradation of LDPE and PET MPs. Furthermore, an innovative accelerated mechanical weathering method was developed to simulate the abrasion of MPs with road deposits. Finally, the role of MPs as the vehicles to transport heavy metals from the urban environment to the water resources is evaluated by studying the kinetics of lead (Pb²⁺) adsorption onto and release from new, mechanically weathered, and photodegraded MPs were investigated. Conducting the XPS, ATR-FTIR, AFM, and FE-SEM analysis confirmed the significant physio-chemistry alterations of both LDPE and PET MPs due to the photodegradation and mechanical weathering. Photodegradation and accumulation of sediments onto the MPs due to the mechanical weathering increased the Pb accumulation onto the LDPE and PET MPs. Moreover, a greater number of plastic fragments were generated by the mechanical weathering of photodegraded MPs compared to the new MPs. The fundamental knowledge developed in this research provides a better conceptual understanding of the mechanisms controlling MPs persistence and contaminant transport within the urban environment.

Biography:
Maryam Salehi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Missouri. She applies her expertise in water chemistry, polymers, and surface sciences to investigate plastic pollutants’ fate within the aquatic environment and examine the contaminant transport within potable water plumbing systems. She also conducts research to develop advanced nanofibrous filters for removing contaminant from water and wastewater. Her research has been supported by NSF, USDA, Tennessee State agencies, and private firms. She received her NSF Early CAREER award in 2021 for investigating the plastic pollutant fate and heavy metals transport in stormwater. Her current research focuses on microplastics’ degradation and contaminant transport within the urban environment and agricultural fields. She also conducts research to better understand the combined physiochemical and biological mechanisms that influence lead (Pb) accumulation onto plastic potable water plumbing. Prior to joining MU, she worked as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Memphis from 2018 to 2022.

Mitigating Nonpoint Source Nutrient Pollution in Urban Runoff with Floating Treatment Wetlands

Carla Campbell
PhD Candidate
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 15, 2022
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Nonpoint sources of pollution associated with stormwater runoff can lead to increased nutrients, sediments, harmful microorganisms, and metals in urban watersheds. Excess nutrient and sediment delivery to streams and lakes can promote eutrophication and development of harmful algal blooms. Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) are a novel approach to mitigate stormwater nutrient pollution. While FTWs show promise, results are variable and there are unresolved issues that hinder widespread use. This research addresses gaps in current understanding of how FTWs improve water quality. Two highly impacted ponds near the Missouri S&T campus provided the motivation for our research. This project focuses on three research needs: characterizing nutrient removal in FTWs through a mass balance, evaluating the contribution of macrophytes to nutrient removal, and evaluating macrophyte harvesting strategies for optimal nutrient removal. Mesocosms were established in outdoor stock tanks on the Missouri S&T campus to measure nutrient uptake by plants in FTWs under conditions similar to natural ponds. Both macrophytes and microorganisms appear to be major mechanisms of nutrient loss from the water. Data analysis is not finalized, but preliminary results tell a unique story.

Biography:
Carla Campbell is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering at Missouri S&T. She is a registered professional engineer and a member of the American Society for Engineering Education and the American Geophysical Union. She received her B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri−Rolla and worked as a consultant in transportation and water resources engineering before returning to Rolla for her M.S. in Environmental Engineering. Carla then worked as a Lecturer at the University of Missouri−Rolla where she taught courses in engineering mechanics, engineering design, and environmental engineering. After taking a break from her career with the birth of her younger child, she has returned to graduate school to complete her PhD.

Role of Greener Default Options on Consumer Preferences for Renewable Energy Procurement

Ankit Agarwal
PhD student
Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science Technology 

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 1, 2022
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
As the cost of renewables has decreased, options for energy procurement have proliferated to meet consumer demand. In addition to installing distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar PV, consumers can subscribe to green energy pricing programs through their utility or competitive electricity supplier (distributed generation). Depending on the electricity supplier, the default option given to customers may vary by renewable content, with provision to voluntarily opt-in to greener options. It is unclear how these options to procure renewable energy from the grid influence household-level decisions to install solar and vice versa. This study uses a discrete choice experiment to determine the influence of attributes such as – renewable content, change in electricity costs, engagement level, procurement duration and solar PV installation, on household-level renewable energy procurement decisions. This approach was used to collect choice data from 600 participants randomly assigned to a treatment group: greener default option, and a control group: conventional default option. The analysis shows that participants’ choices are not only influenced by the default options but also the renewable content and costs. This research will help policymakers and electricity providers design programs to encourage renewable energy adoption and therefore increase the dependency on cleaner fuels for electricity generation.

Biography:
Ankit Agarwal is a current PhD student majoring in Engineering Management at Missouri S&T. He is focused on applying data-driven approaches to problems related to renewable energy and rural broadband market. He earned his MS in Engineering Management in May 2021. Prior to graduate studies, he worked in the IT Consulting industry for nearly 3 years after completing his bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from India.

A Rational Basis for Hope: Human Behavior Modeling and Climate Change” a research-level talk for an interdisciplinary audience on recent work including a paper we published in Nature in March

Louis J. Gross
Chancellor’s Professor Emeritus and Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Mathematics
University of Tennessee Knoxville

Co-hosts:  Biological Sciences and Environmental Science
In Collaboration with the Center for Arts & Innovation

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday September 20, 2022
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Biography:
Louis J. Gross is a Chancellor’s Professor Emeritus and Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Mathematics and has been a faculty member at the UTK since 1979. He is the Director Emeritus of the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS), a National Science Foundation-funded center to foster research and education at the interface between math and biology. He completed a B.S. degree in Mathematics at Drexel University and a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics at Cornell University. His research focuses on applications of mathematics and computational methods in many areas of ecology, including disease ecology, landscape ecology, spatial control for natural resource management, photosynthetic dynamics, climate change and the development of quantitative curricula for life science undergraduates. His research and education efforts have been continuously supported by awards from the National Science Foundation for over 25 years and since 1990 he has been a principal investigator on over $50M in external funding to UTK. He is the co-editor of the Encyclopedia of Theoretical Ecology and co-author of the textbook Mathematics for the Life Sciences. He has served as Program Chair of the Ecological Society of America, as President of the Society for Mathematical Biology, President of the UTK Faculty Senate, Treasurer for the American Institute of Biological Sciences and as Chair of the National Research Council Committee on Education in Biocomplexity Research. He is the 2006 Distinguished Scientist awardee of the American Institute of Biological Sciences, is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and of the Society for Mathematical Biology and received the 2017 UTK Faculty Achievement Award from the Southeastern Conference. He has served on the National Research Council Board on Life Sciences and was a member of the National Academies Committee on Envisioning the Data Science Discipline: The Undergraduate Perspective. He is a long-time volunteer for Jubilee Community Arts and Community Shares, hosted and produced folk music programs for WUOT-FM, performs with the Lark in the Morn English Country Dancers and serves as House Sound Engineer for concerts at the Laurel Theatre in Knoxville.

Harsh Political Pendulum Swings: A Survival Guide

Roger Walker, J.D., LLM
Executive Director of the Regulatory Environmental Group for Missouri (REGFORM)

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday September 6, 2022
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Increasingly challenging pendulum swings in Energy and Environmental Policy over the past two decades have become the norm. Distrust, misinformation, and partisan politics have harmed our ability to reach consensus, trust scientific research, govern effectively, and solve critical problems. This seminar will address how we reached this point, discuss key regulatory policy trends, and offer a vision of our energy and environmental policy future.

Biography:
Roger Walker, J.D., LLM (Environmental Law), MA (History) BS (Journalism/Education).  Walker currently serves as the Executive Director of the Regulatory Environmental Group for Missouri (REGFORM) -- a business association that has forged positive relationships with State and Federal agencies in the support of sound science, purposeful regulations, fair funding, meaningful discussion and consensus-building. Walker also serves as a consultant and legal adviser to corporate clients.  In 2014, he created and continues to serve as Chair of the annual "Midwest Environmental Compliance Conference." In 2009, he helped co-found the Missouri Energy Initiative (MEI) and was its Director for four years. Walker has also worked as Of Counsel for a St. Louis law firm, taught "Environmental Law" as an Adjunct Instructor at St. Louis University, and clerked for the Missouri Supreme Court.  

Research Opportunities Using the New Upgraded Solar Village Smart Microgrid and its 4 Solar Houses

Stephane Menand
Assistant Director
Center for Research in Energy and Environment
Solar Village and Microgrids
Missouri University of Science and Technology

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday May 3, 2022
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The use of Smart Microgrids have drastically increased over recent years and will keep increasing as individuals and companies look to improve the benefits from their solar systems, as policies and incentives from the government become more supportive ,as people look for more independence from the grid  or back-up generation for when the grid is down, but also  as Utility companies increasingly see the benefits that microgrids can provide for grid stability etc.

Missouri S&T has recently upgraded its original Solar Village microgrid with a smart Home Series System from ELM Fieldsight. This all-in-one microgrid includes Microgrid Site Controls, switchgear, LiFePO4 batteries, and a central inverter. Some of the system benefits included peak demand shaving, demand response, and seamless power back-up. Researchers may also be given remote access for data collection and algorithms can be changed to meet research needs.

Biography:
Stephane holds an MBA from Missouri S&T with an emphasis on sustainability and currently holds a NABCEP associate and a teaching certificate for photovoltaic and battery storage from Solar Energy International. His main role is to manage the research, operations, outreach, and education of the solar villages and also to work on education and workforce development for Solar and energy storage.

Before his current role, Stephane developed the Celebration of Nations for the office of International Affairs, Administrated the study abroad programs including visiting partner university abroad, and ran the solar villages and electric bus, and recycling for the former office of sustainability.

Are Nature-Based Solutions Possible for PFAS?  Challenges and Research Needs

Barry J. Harding, CPG
Director of Nature-Based Solutions
AECOM Remediation West

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Missouri S&T

Join Zoom Meeting  https://umsystem.zoom.us/j/94308485013?pwd=MFZpZ2tVV3p6bTJzbFA3bzdUR1ZOQT09 - Meeting ID: 943 0848 5013
Passcode: 242325

Abstract:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 4,000 synthetic compounds known for their environmental persistence, and for many compounds, low toxicological thresholds. Vegetative uptake is through both passive (xylem stream) and active mechanisms.  Available literature and research suggests that the active transport mechanisms are poorly understood.  Biologically facilitated transformation and defluorination of PFAS is a relatively new field and deemed a “holy grail” within emerging contaminant remediation practices.  The author will provide a guided tour on our current understanding of PFAS bioremediation, with a focus on research needs.

Biography:
Barry Harding is AECOM’s global practice leader in phytoremediation and director of nature-based solutions within the environmental remediation practice discipline.  He has over 30 years of applied technical consulting experience, having worked on an estimated 500 environmental sites of contamination on five continents.  His focus areas include uptake and transformation of xenobiotic compounds including PFAS.

A Conversation with Dru Buntin, Missouri DNR Director

Dru Buntin
Director
Missouri Department of Natural Resources

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday March 15, 2022
125 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Governor Parson appointed Dru Buntin Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in August 2021. On behalf of the agency, Dru will share his vision, which is a continued focus on improving the quality of life for Missourians. He’ll also share information on activities and efforts in which the Department and the University are potential partners. Missouri is a state blessed with an abundance of natural resources. The Department plays a vital role in protecting and preserving those resources, including minerals, water, and environmental habitat, while ensuring they are available for generations to come.

Biography:
Dru Buntin was named director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in August 2021.

He joined the Missouri Department of Natural Resources as deputy director in May 2017, after serving as executive director for the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association for four years. Prior to his time with the UMRBA, he was deputy director for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources from 2009 to 2012.

Since rejoining the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in 2017, Dru has led the agency on important river-related issues, including drought relief and flood recovery. He was also instrumental in leading the department’s Red Tape Reduction efforts, which reduced the regulatory burden on Missouri businesses and citizens.

Advanced Fission Batteries for Energy and Environment: research opportunities with INL

Palash K. Bhowmik, Ph.D.
Post-Doctoral Research Associate
Irradiation Experiment
Thermal Hydraulics Analysis Dept.
Reactor Systems Design & Analysis Division, INL

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday February 15, 2022
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The world must use low-carbon energy sources to ensure energy supply and environmental protection. This challenge requires using all low-carbon energy technologies: renewables, nuclear, and fossil fuels with carbon capture and sequestration. Nuclear energy could play a key part in this solution mix. The recent energy trends show a necessity for distributed energy: electricity generation for micro-grid/off-grid isolated systems or heat sources for industrial/residential applications. Several kilowatts range nuclear reactors (called microreactors) are under development to fulfill this need. These reactors work as “plug-and-play” (i.e., fully factory fabrication and direct installation on site) energy generating units like batteries which generate power from nuclear fission chain reaction with features like remote and secured operation. Research and development programs were ongoing at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) to successfully develop such reactor technologies. The experimental facilities and simulation tools developed by INL would support other research and development for energy and environment. This seminar talk will give a focus for fission batteries—microreactor systems and will present an overview of the research facilities, simulation tools and other core-capabilities of INL, which may spark interest in researching deeper and initiating collaborative projects in the future.

Biography:
Dr. Palash K. Bhowmik is a post-doctoral research associate in the Irradiation Experiment Thermal Hydraulics Analysis department, Reactor System Design and Analysis Division of Idaho National Laboratory. He is also working with microreactor project with system code modeling and analysis supported by experiments in Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) facility. His research contribution covers the technical areas of nuclear system design, multiphysics and system code simulations, modeling, and analysis. He received his Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from Missouri S&T. His doctoral research on scaling, experiments, and simulations of condensation heat transfer for advanced nuclear reactor’s safety, under the guidance of Dr. Joshua P. Schlegel. He served as president of the council of a graduate students at Missouri S&T in 2017-2018. He holds affiliations with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the American Society of Nuclear Engineers (ANS).

Electronic cigarettes smoke: mechanism, concentration, and characteristics of metals’ emissions

Kapiamba Kashala Fabrice
PhD candidate, environmental Engineering
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 16, 2021
314 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The use of electronic cigarettes (ECs) has been on the rise since their introduction two decades ago. Initially designed to transition tobacco cigarettes’ quitters, it was believed to benefit from eliminating secondhand aerosols. EC vapor (nicotine-containing aerosols) is generated by vaporizing a liquid containing propylene glycerol, nicotine, and flavoring agents, depending on the brand. Currently, manufacturers of more than four hundred brands that have been identified claim that ECs are healthier alternatives to conventional tobacco cigarettes. However, chemical characterization of EC aerosols has revealed higher concentrations of nicotine, flavoring chemicals, and metal particles that may lead to health complications in case of excess and extended exposure. In addition, metal nanoparticles contained in EC aerosols may result from their working mechanism and design features, and their concentration is power-dependent. Hence, aerosols produced at higher voltage were revealed to be more toxic than at lower voltage when tested on human lung cells. Moreover, though EC does not primarily release smoke like tobacco cigarettes, people can still be exposed to secondhand aerosols exhaled by smokers containing metal species. To date, the health effects of being exposed to secondhand e-cigarette aerosol are not well elucidated. Therefore, we have characterized the size distribution and metal content of both primary and secondhand EC aerosols in this study. Secondhand aerosols were obtained by passing primary aerosols through a simulated respiratory system, a series of filters that mimic lung particle deposition efficiency. We have also assessed metal content as a function of cycles and found that metal emission increase with EC aging. The masses of Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Zn were consistently high across all brands in the primary and secondhand aerosols, some of which were above the regulated maximum daily intake amount, especially for carcinogenic Cr and Ni with mass (ng per 10 puffs) emitted at 117 ± 54 (JUUL), 125 ± 77 (VOOPOO), 33 ± 10 (Vapor4Life), and 50 ± 24, 219 ± 203, and 27 ± 2, respectively. Our analysis indicates that the metals are released from the EC liquid and the heating coil surface because of the intense heating of the device. High metal content was also observed in simulated secondhand aerosols, generally 80%–90% of primary aerosols. Our findings will be helpful and will guide research aimed at assessing the health effects of secondhand EC.  

Biography:
Kapiamba is a Ph.D. candidate in Environmental Engineering at Missouri S&T. He received in BTech at CPUT (South Africa) and an MS in Chemical engineering at the University of Toledo. He is passionate about climate change mitigation technologies and air quality assessment. His current project lies around indoor air quality, characterization and toxicological analysis of e-cigarette aerosols.

Strategies to detect soluble ash variability and contamination

Sarah Fischer, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow
Civil and Environmental Engineering and the School of Natural Resources
Mizzou

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday October 19, 2021
314 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The occurrence of wildfires is increasing due to development, fire suppression, and climate change. Wildfires create lasting effects on watersheds and source water quality, diminishing treatment efficiency and the ability of utilities to provide safe, potable water for years following the burn. Furthermore, wildfire-derived natural organic matter (NOM) affects drinking water treatment and can lead to unique disinfection byproducts (DBPs) from chlorination.

The seminar will discuss methods for detecting wildfire-NOM in water supplies. Optical spectroscopy of NOM is one convenient tool that can inform diverse problems: from waste management to wildfire impacts. However, the dense nature of optical spectra has led to the development of over twenty quantification strategies or surrogates. I will present work that critically evaluates optical surrogates and recommends targeted optical metrics for differently impacted environments – from wastewater to wildfires. These efforts aim to advance lab studies, field probes, and online process monitoring that utilizes optics.

Biography:
Sarah Fischer is a postdoctoral fellow in Civil and Environmental Engineering and the School of Natural Resources at Mizzou.  She is also involved in accessible and equitable STEM efforts. Sarah's research interests include waste and wastewater management, organic matter and contaminant chemistry, and probe developments. She completed a B.S. in Chemistry and M.S. in Marine Science at the University of Delaware. Next, she completed her Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry and Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. Before coming to Mizzou, she conducted a 2-year postdoctoral position at CU Boulder.

Energy Storage Technology & Systems

Stan Atcitty
Progam Manager
Sandia National Laboratories

10:00 a.m.
Tuesday August 31, 2021
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Part 1: The Role of Power Electronics and Wide Bandgap Semiconductors in Grid-Tied Energy Storage Systems

Part 2: Native American Energy Sovereignty: Energy Storage and Power Electronics Benefit

This two-part seminar on energy storage will include both a technology-focused section and an application-focused section.

Abstract:
Part 1: Grid-tied energy storage systems are a key subsystem to the electric utility infrastructure in that they provide multiple technical and economic benefits such increasing asset utilization and deferring upgrades of the grid, providing flexibility for the customer and cost control, maintaining power quality, and increasing the value of variable renewable generation from photovoltaic and wind generation systems. Such systems will ultimately improve the flexibility, reliability, security, quality, and cost effectiveness of the existing and future electric utility systems. Current energy storage systems including the power conversion system are packaged in standard shipping containers for the ease of transportability and siting. They are attractive because they have lower installation cost and less installation time to operation. This design approach provides unique technical challenges for the energy storage technology as well as the power conversion system. Due to the containerized approach, high power density and small footprint design is critical. There has been increase interest in the utilization of wide band gap (WBG) devices such as SiC and GaN for switch mode power supply applications. These materials offer the potential for higher switching frequencies, higher blocking voltages, lower switching losses and a higher junction temperature than traditional silicon-based switches. It has been shown that WBG-based power conversion systems along with advanced capacitors, magnetics and packaging can result in higher power density than silicon-based system and thus an attractive approach for containerized energy storage systems. This presentation will focus on the role of power electronics used in grid-tied energy storage systems.

Part 2: The DOE Energy Storage Program leads a worldwide effort in addressing energy issues through energy storage R&D for grid-tied and off-grid systems throughout the United States, including on Native American tribal lands. There are currently 574 Native American federally recognized tribes in the United States. Each tribe is a sovereign nation with its own government, traditions, culture, etc., and has a unique relationship with the federal and state governments. Tribal lands total about 5.8% of land area in the conterminous U.S. land. These lands have utility-scale renewable energy production of about 6.5% of the total U.S. national potential and yet 14% of households on Native American reservations have no access to electricity according to the Energy Information Administration. This presentation provides a background on Native American energy sovereignty and shows examples of current DOE Energy Storage Program project in tribal lands.

Biography:
Stan Atcitty received his BS and MS degree in electrical engineering from the New Mexico State University in 1993 and 1995, respectively. He received his Ph.D. from Virginia Tech University in 2006. He is presently a Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at Sandia National Laboratories in the Energy Storage Technology & Systems department. He has worked at Sandia for over 25 years. His interest in research is power electronics necessary for integrating energy storage and distributed generation with the electric utility grid. He leads the power electronics subprogram as part of the DOE Office of Electricity Energy Storage Program.

Multiscale Analysis of Mechanical and Transport Properties in Shale Gas Reservoirs

Mohammad Hatami, Ph.D.
Visiting Scholar
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla MO

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday May 4, 2021
Zoom Presentation
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

Predicting long-term production from gas shale reservoirs is a challenging task due to changes in effective stress and permeability during production. Unlike coal, the variation of sorbing gas permeability with pore pressure in shale does not always feature a biphasic trend under a constant confining pressure. Poroelasticity, gas pressure on the walls of nanocapillaries networks, as well as the geometry of pore networks are major mechanisms that regulate shale permeability concurrent with hydrocarbons depletion. Therefore, understanding how shale permeability changes with effective stress is imperative to predicting long-term gas production. A series of experiments were designed and conducted on Utica shale samples to quantify the effects on shale permeability under constant confining pressure (CCP) and constant effective stress (CES) conditions. An apparent permeability using a single-capillary model was developed considering the effects of poroelasticity and gas slippage on the wall of nano capillary tube. In addition, a multiscale poromechanics framework was applied to establish a deep understanding of the structural, mechanical, and fluid transport properties of shale formations. The two-dimensional porous structures were reconstructed based on experimental data on porosity and average pore diameter, to characterize the topology of porous media and subsequently were employed to build a multiscale simulation tool to study the mechanics and the transport properties in the shale. Results offer evidence of the prevalent role of nanopore networks at microscale in apparent permeability and material properties at macroscale, which subsequently limit long-term hydrocarbon production by a reduction of apparent permeability. This opens the approach to study the poromechanics of complex multiscale media considering fluid and solid interaction.

Biography:

Mohammad Hatami received his PhD at Ohio University in Mechanical Engineering, and he joined Missouri University S&T as a visiting research scholar in January 2021. His research field is related to computational mechanics, multidimensional analysis applied to porous media, computational fluid dynamics, and multiphase flow. His research focuses on discovering how the multidimensional mechanical properties of shale can affect transport properties which are imperative to predicting long-term gas production.

Occurrence, Fate, and Treatment of PFAS in the Environment and Engineered Systems

Weilan Zhang, Ph.D., P.E.
Department of Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
University of Albany, SUNY

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday April 20, 2021
Zoom Presentation
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

Worldwide manufacturing and use of synthetic poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have inevitably resulted in their release into the environment. PFAS has attracted global attention due to their toxicity and persistence in the environment. These emerging contaminants are also of continued concern due to their hazardous effect on the ecosystem and public health. Thus, development of sustainable remediation technologies for PFAS is urgently needed. My research showed that photocatalytic process using In₂O₃ nanoparticles can degrade PFOA in wastewater but was ineffective for perfluoroalkane sulfonates. Moreover, PFAS can be taken up and accumulated in variety of plant species including Typha latifolia, Juncus effusus, Lemna minor, and Carex comosa. The plant uptake of PFAS was positively correlated with the exposure time, concentration, and logK_ow of PFAS. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) at 300 °C for 2 h can completely degrade PFAS with a carboxyl group accumulated in wet plant biomass and generate valuable biochar and biocrude. PFAS with a sulfonic functional group in pure water, however, were resistant to HTL and had low degradation rates. Encouragingly, plant biomass and alkaline reagents (e.g., KOH, Ca(OH)₂) showed significantly positive catalytic effect on the degradation of this category of PFAS. Our promising results indicated that phytoremediation that uses plants to extract PFAS from contaminated soil, sediment or water followed by HTL could be an effective and sustainable approach for remediating sites contaminated by these emerging contaminants.

Biography:

Dr. Weilan Zhang, a registered Professional Engineer in Texas, is currently a postdoctoral researcher working at University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY). He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University. Prior to joining SUNY Albany, he was a postdoctoral fellow at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Dr. Zhang's primary research areas are in environmental behavior and remediation of emerging contaminants. His current work centers on the remediation of water and soil contaminated by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). He is also studying the fate and impact of PFAS in different environmental systems.

Fates of Au, Ag, ZnO and CeO₂ Nanoparticles in Simulated Gastric Fluid Studied using Single Particle-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry

Xiaolong He
PhD Candidate
Chemistry
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday April 6, 2021
Zoom Presentation
Missouri S&T

Abstract:

The increasing use of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in many industries has generated significant research interest regarding their impact on the environment and human health. The major routes of ENPs to enter the human body are inhalation, skin contact, and ingestion. Following ingestion, ENPs have a long contact time in human stomach. Hence, it is essential to know the fate of the ENPs under gastric conditions. This study aims to investigate the fate of the widely used nanoparticles Ag-NP, Au-NP, CeO2-NP, and ZnO-NP in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) under different conditions through the application of single-particle inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS). The resulting analytical methods have size detection limits for Ag-NP, Au-NP, ZnO-NP, and CeO₂-NP, from 15 nm to 35 nm, and the particle concentration detection limit is 135 particles/mL. Metal ions corresponding to the ENPs of interest were detected simultaneously with detection limits from 0.02 to 0.1 µg/L. The results showed that ZnO-NPs dissolved completely and rapidly in SGF, whereas Au-NPs and CeO₂-NPs showed apparent aggregation and did not dissolve significantly. Both aggregation and dissolution were observed in Ag-NP samples following exposure to SGF. The size distributions and concentrations of ENPs were affected by the original ENP concentration, ENP size, the contact time in SGF, and temperature. This work represents a significant advancement in the understanding of ENP characteristics under gastric conditions.

Biography:

In 2011, Xiaolong He graduated with a Bachelor degree of Environmental Engineering from Yanshan University in Qinhuangdao, China. After he received his BS degree, he started to work in the Yema environment protection company in Shanghai for 4 years. In 2017, he joined in Missouri University of Science and Technology to continue his graduate study in Dr. Honglan Shi’s research group. He will receive his Ph.D. degree in Chemistry in May 2021 from Missouri University of Science and Technology.

The Effect of Various Graphite Additives on Positive Active Mass Utilization of the Lead-acid Battery

Julian Kosacki
PhD Candidate
Materials Science and Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

4:00 p.m.
Tuesday February 2, 2021
Zoom Presentation
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Various graphite additives were incorporated into the positive paste in a range of amounts to study and compare their effects on the positive active mass utilization of lead-acid batteries. Four types of graphite – two anisotropic, one globular, and one fibrous – were investigated by SEM, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy. Their physico-chemical properties were correlated to the electrochemical performances of 2V test batteries under a wide range of conditions. This works presents the influence of graphite additives’ structural order, phase composition, particle size, morphology, and surface area on the formation, initial cycling, and electrochemical utilization of the positive plate. The effects of various graphite on electrochemical performance were investigated using SEM, mercury porosimetry, and TGA/DSC to correlate the function of graphite on the positive active mass utilization of the lead-acid battery.

Understanding bubble plumes in laboratories and in the field

Binbin Wang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Civil and Environmental Engineering
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday February 26, 2020
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Bubble plumes are fundamental multiphase flow phenomena in many natural and engineered water systems. For instance, methane ebullition and natural methane seeps in lakes and oceans are important natural processes related to aquatic pollution and transport of climate related gases. Bubble plumes are widely used in engineering applications including lake destratification using bubble plume to break down the stratified thermal structure in lakes and reservoirs, bubble curtain to prevent horizontal transport of pollutants, and bubble induced turbulence for ice prevention and wave destruction. The flow of water agitated by bubbles is impacted by bubble characteristics such as sizes, population, and how they are organized in the system. This talk will discuss some fundamental flow structures in bubble plumes, and some recent work about the impacts of bubble sizes on the mean flow and turbulence under the same source flow rates in laboratories. We will also briefly discuss the application of bubble plume in lake destratification and natural bubble seeps in oceans.

Biography:
Binbin Wang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and an Adjunct Faculty member in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M University. He obtained his Ph.D. degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee in 2013. He has a BS degree in Physics (2004) from Anhui University, and a MS degree in Fire Science and Engineering (2009) from University of Science and Technology of China. Before he joined Mizzou, he was a postdoc scholar and a research scientist at Texas A&M University. His research lies in a broad range of environmental hydraulics & hydrology and applied fluid dynamics. His work often integrates sensor development in field applications. For instance, he developed an underwater Particle Image Velocimetry system and a deep-sea stereo imaging system. He is currently leading a research about bubble plumes funded by Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative and is working collaboratively with Texas A&M about methane dissolution funded by U.S. Department of Energy.

Rapid Measurements of Aerosol Size Distribution and Hygroscopic Growth with a Fast Integrated Mobility Spectrometer (FIMS)

Yang Wang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday November 13, 2019
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Aerosol size distribution and hygroscopicity are among key parameters in determining the impact of atmospheric aerosols on global radiation and climate change. In situ submicron aerosol size distribution measurements commonly involve a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS). The SMPS scanning time is in the scale of minutes, which is often too slow to capture the variation of aerosol size distribution, such as for aerosols formed via nucleation processes or measurements onboard research aircraft. To solve this problem, a Fast Integrated Mobility Spectrometer (FIMS) based on image processing was developed for rapid measurements of aerosol size distributions from 10 to 600 nm. The FIMS uses a high speed CCD camera to measure the condensationally grown particles, and the collected images provide both aerosol concentration and position, which directly relate to the aerosol size distribution. The parallel comparison between the FIMS and SMPS demonstrated excellent agreement when measuring aerosols with various size spectra, but by simultaneously measuring aerosols with different sizes, the FIMS provides aerosol size spectra nearly 100 times faster than the SMPS.

Recent deployment onboard research aircraft demonstrated that the FIMS is capable of measuring aerosol size distributions in 1s, thereby offering a great advantage in applications requiring high time resolution. In addition, the coupling of the FIMS with other conventional aerosol instruments provides orders of magnitude more rapid characterization of aerosol optical and microphysical properties. For example, the combination of a differential mobility analyzer, a relative humidity control unit, and a FIMS was used to measure aerosol hygroscopic growth. Such a system reduced the time of measuring the hygroscopic properties of submicron aerosols (six sizes) to less than three minutes in total, with an error within 1%.

Biography:
Yang Wang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He obtained his Ph.D. degree from the Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis in 2017, and B.S. degree from the Department of Thermal Engineering at Tsinghua University in 2012. Between 2017 and 2019, he was a postdoctoral research associate at Brookhaven National Laboratory. His research focuses on aerosol instrumentation, high-temperature aerosol measurement, and functional nanoparticle synthesis. He worked on a fast-integrated mobility spectrometer (FIMS) that measures aerosol size distributions every 1 s, and high-resolution differential mobility analyzers (HR-DMAs) that measure particles with sizes down to 1 nm. He also evaluated and developed portable particle sensors for air quality monitoring. Yang has authored and co-authored 28 peer-reviewed publications and is the Outstanding Reviewer of the Journal of Aerosol Science. He is the recipient of the GAeF PhD Award during the 2019 European Aerosol Conference.

Engaging Experts in Water Policy & Sustainability Decision Making

Damon M. Hall, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
School of Natural Resources
Department of Biomedical, Biological & Chemical Engineering
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday October 30, 2019
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Water is a shared resource held in trust for the use of a state’s citizenry; its management obliges the involvement of water users. US states have much discretion concerning how to accomplish this. In state water planning, a variety of activities are considered stakeholder engagement. Natural resource management agencies often treat public participation as a chore for attaining legitimacy whose resources might be better used for technical aspects of planning. This talk details the public participation design for the 2015 Montana State Water Plan’s Yellowstone Basin scoping phase as informed by the emerging field of sustainability science. It argues that the design of participatory practices is the key variable for successful participation. Stakeholders are experts whose knowledge can be incorporated into planning to inform priorities, corroborate biophysical data, and supply insights for communicating science and policy to citizens across specific localities. Public buy-in (legitimation) is not the objective of stakeholder participation; however, it can be a by-product of good design which suits the context and effectively uses citizen input to improve decision making.

Biography:
Hall joins Mizzou from Saint Louis University, where he was an assistant professor in the Department of Biology and Center for Sustainability. He was hired as part of the College of Engineering’s Pillars of Pursuit cluster “Sustainability inFEWSed (Food, Energy, Water, Smart Cities).” His research examines interactions between social and ecological systems where science, policy and culture meet. His work involves stakeholders in environmental policy and sustainability planning. At Mizzou, he heads the Sustainability Science Lab, which includes projects in water resources planning, urban pollinator conservation and communicating social-ecological systems models. Hall has received grants from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the National Science Foundation and the Missouri Department of Conservation. He has received a teaching honor from Saint Louis University and a partnership award from the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation. He completed a PhD in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences as a Boone & Crockett PhD Fellow in Conservation Policy at Texas A&M University. He holds a M.A. in Communication and a B.S. in Natural Resources both from Purdue University. He completed a NSF-supported Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Maine's Sustainability Solutions Initiative, an EPSCoR-funded project to advance Sustainability Science. He teaches undergraduate courses in Sustainability and graduate courses in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources. His research can be found here: http://www.SustainabilityScienceLab.org/

Trouble Ahead, Trouble Behind:  Acid Mine Drainage and Climate Change in the Rocky Mountains

Diane McKnight
University of Colorado
2019 - AEESP Lecturer

3:00 p.m.
Tuesday October 22, 2019
125 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
In the Rocky Mountain watersheds, weathering of disseminated pyrite in the country rock and in mining workings generates acidic, metal-enriched water that drains into streams and rivers. This overall process is referred to as acid rock drainage (ARI)). ARD is a long-term and pervasive environmental problem in the Rocky Mountains and the Sierras, which provide water supply for communities and agriculture throughout the south western US. Contamination has not abated since the mining boom ended about 70 years ago, largely because these contaminants are continuously generated from the exposure to oxygen of pyrite in the mine workings and tailings. A study in an ARD stream system that drains into Dillon Reservoir, a water supply for Denver, Colorado, has found that acidity and concentrations of metals and rare earth elements have been steadily increasing in the summer and fall over the past several decades. Another trend is that mountain resorts have been pursuing a "four seasons resort" approach to adapt to changing climate, and less reliable winter snowpack for skiing. ARD thwarts these plans by constraining the use of stream water for snowmaking and impacting summer recreation, such as fishing and rafting. One issue for state and federal agencies and watershed stakeholders' groups is determining which of the many abandoned mines in a catchment are the main ARD sources, and which of these are suitable for remediation. Addressing the ARD problem in mountain catchments will require a convergent research approach that integrates understanding of hydrology, water quality and aquatic ecosystem processes within a regulatory and water resources framework.

Next-generation Battery Technologies

Arumugam Manthiram, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering Program
Texas Materials Institute
The University of Texas at Austin

4:00 p.m.
Monday October 21, 2019
G3 Schrenk Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Rapid increase in global energy use and growing environmental concerns have prompted the development of clean, sustainable, alternative energy technologies. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are a promising solution, but electrical energy storage (EES) is critical to efficiently utilize them as they are intermittent. EES is also the only viable near-term option for transportation. Rechargeable batteries are prime candidates for EES, but their widespread adoption for electric vehicles and grid electricity storage requires optimization of cost, cycle life, safety, energy density, power density, and environmental impact, all of which are directly linked to severe materials challenges. After providing a brief account of the current status, this presentation will focus on the development of advanced
materials and new battery chemistries. Specifically, lithium-based batteries based on low-cobalt oxide and sulfur cathodes and interdigitated alloy anodes will be presented. The challenges of bulk and surface instability and chemical crossover during charge-discharge cycling, advanced characterization methodologies to develop an in-depth understanding, and approaches to overcome the challenges will be presented.

Biography:
Arumugam Manthiram is currently the Cockrell Family Regents Chair in Engineering and Director of the Texas Materials Institute and the Materials Science and Engineering Program at the University of Texas at Austin (UT-Austin). He received his Ph.D. degree in chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 1981. After working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oxford and at UT-Austin with Professor John Goodenough, he became a faculty member in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at UTAustin in 1991. Dr. Manthiram’s research is focused on clean energy technologies: rechargeable batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors. He has authored more than 760 journal articles with 57,000 citations and an h-index of 121. He directs a large research group with about 30 graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. Dr. Manthiram is an elected fellow of six professional societies: Materials Research Society, Electrochemical Society, American Ceramic Society, Royal Society of Chemistry, American Association for the Advancement of Science, and World Academy of Materials and Manufacturing Engineering. He is also an elected member of the World Academy of Ceramics. He received the university-wide (one per year) Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award in 2012, the Battery Division Research Award from the Electrochemical Society in 2014, the Distinguished Alumnus Award of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 2015, the Billy and Claude R. Hocott Distinguished Centennial Engineering Research Award in 2016, and the Da Vinci Award in 2017. He is a Web of Science Highly Cited Researcher in 2017 and 2018.

Green conversion of sustainable polymers

Lina Zhang
Professor and Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences
College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences,
Wuhan University, China

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday September 4, 2019
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
In this presentation Professor Zhang will present a novel NaOH/urea solvent to dissolve cellulose, chitin and polyaniline (PANI) at low temperature. From this solution fibers, films, microspheres, plastics, hydrogels and aerogels can be fabricated. Importantly, the produced multifilament fiber via physical methods features a nanofibril structure and exhibits excellent properties in mechanical strength, self-healable ability, force-response sensitively, magnetic-induced delivery, etc. The relationship between the fiber structure and these properties was revealed. These materials have promising applications in biomedical, energy storage, green catalyst, wastewater treatment, and textile manufacturing that will lead to a sustainable society.

Biography:
Professor Lina Zhang works in the College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, China. She serves as an Associate Editor for ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, and on Editorial boards of Journals of Cellulose, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, etc. Professor Zhang has established the Natural Polymers and Polymer Physics group at Wuhan University in 1993, and pioneered low temperature technologies to dissolve intransigent macromolecules and fabricate novel materials via "green" methods. Professor Zhang has published 16 books and more than 600 papers. She became the first Chinese scientist receiving Anselme Payen Award of ACS in 2011. She also received a Second-place National Nature Science Prize of China (2012), developed over 100 patents, and recognized as a National Excellent Woman Inventor (2002). Professor Zhang was elected as an Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2011 and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2014.

Crossflow Microfiltration of Oil from synthetic Produced water using Multichannel Ceramic Membrane

Yousef Alanezi, Ph.D.
Visiting Research Scholar
Chemical Engineering Technology, CTS, PAAET, Kuwait
Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University Science and Technology

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday May 1, 2019
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Produced water is formed in underground formations and brought up to the surface along with crude oil during production. It considered by far the largest volume by-product or waste stream. The most popular preference to deal with produced water is to re-inject it back into the formation. Produced water re-injection (PWRI) needs a modified treatment before injection to achieve better results. Usually it estimated that oil wells in the west of Kuwait produce 15 to 40 % of produced water. The main aim of this treatment train is reduce not only the oil-in-water amount to less than 10 ppm but also total suspended solids to 5 ppm, which is the maximum allowable concentration for re-injection and disposal. Furthermore, with respect to the upper limit for injection, the number of particles between 5 to 8 microns is 200 in 0.1 ml. In practice, the number is found to exceed these limits by 10 times. Hence, crossflow microfiltration of oil from synthetic produced water studied experimentally under various operating conditions using a tubular multi-channel ceramic membrane. Crossflow velocities, oil concentrations, and ionic strength variation effects on equilibrium permeate flux were investigated.  An increase in crossflow velocity for oil emulsions caused an increase in the equilibrium permeate flux. In contrast, as feed oil concentrations increased from 300 to 2400 ppm, equilibrium permeate fluxes were decreased.  Likewise, when the ionic strength for the feed emulsions was increased by addition NaCl salt, the permeate flux declined. While, as the ionic strength increased by addition of CaCl₂ and FeCl₃, the permeate flux increased. These different observations are discussed in term of the hydrodynamics and particle interactions in relation to the filtration process.

Biography:
Dr Yousef is an assistant Professor at Chemical Engineering Technology, CTS, PAAET, Kuwait. He joined Missouri University S&T as research scholar visitor in September 2018. He earned his PhD. in Chemical Engineering from Loughborough University, UK. Early in his career as worked a chemical engineer as inspector engineer for Desalination MSF plant. In addition, he worked for Petrochemical Company as daily production specialist for Ethylene Glycol Unit.     

Hydrology in the Anthropocene

Nitin Singh, Ph.D.
Post-Doctoral
Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday April 10, 2019
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
In the face of climate change, there is a need for novel frameworks and robust methods to address environmental issues. The first part of the presentation aims to highlight the role of nature based solutions (e.g., green infrastructures) in solving water quantity and water quality issues. Here, I will share a unique framework that integrates an ecosystem services model with optimization algorithms to demonstrate the efficacy of wetlands in improving water quality at the regional scale. Further, I will show the potential of floodplains in minimizing flooding at the river network scale. The second part of the presentation focuses on the importance of causality analysis in revealing the controls of groundwater depletion over five decades. Here, I will show that correlation does not necessarily mean causation and one must exercise caution while making use of correlations to understand relationships between variables.

Biography:
Nitin is currently a post-doctoral research associate at GGPE. His research focuses on understanding the influence of global change and catchment characteristic on water quantity and quality of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. He recently completed his PhD in catchment hydrology and biogeochemistry at North Carolina State University, NC. His research interests include catchment hydrology, biogeochemistry, fluvial geomorphology, ecosystem services, and land-atmospheric interactions.  For more information, please see Nitin’s website: http://nksingh01.wix.com/nitinsingh.

Agent-Based Simulation of the Electrical Power Market

Gasser Galal Ali
Ph.D. Student
Civil, Architectural & Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday March 13, 2019
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
In 2003, the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission proposed the Wholesale Power Market Platform (WPMP). Within such platform, the operation of wholesale power markets is regulated by Independent System Operators (ISO) - or Regional Transmission Organizations (RTO) - through using Locational Marginal Price (LMP). The proposed framework was implemented in New England, the Midwest, and other locations. A framework, titled Agent-based Modeling of Electricity System (AMES), was developed to simulate the WPMP processes. However, with the increasing adoption of distributed solar generation (DSG) and the continuously decreasing cost of installation, the price of electricity is expected to increase due to decreasing demand for power from the grid. This will convince more residents to install DSG. Under those evolving circumstances, forecasting the behavior of the market, and the future demand for electrical power becomes inaccurate. To this end, the goal of this research is to investigate the effect of the adoption of Distributed Energy Resources (DER), specifically Distributed Solar Generation (DSG) on the power market. While this research will be applied on the electric grid in Tennessee, the utilized tools are broad enough to be adapted at various other locations both nationally and internationally. Accordingly, a prototype framework was developed to modify the AMES model. The objective is to match the characteristics of the service area for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) including the associated stakeholders as well as market structure and operation. This will help answer many questions related to the cost of investment into DSG both at the generation and resident sides. Current results indicate that decreased load demand due to the adoption of DSG will affect high-cost generators more than lower-cost generating units. When complete, this research will simulate the effect of the adoption of DSG in the TVA area, and enable forecasting of the behavior of the market, and experimentation with regulations and incentives affecting DER and DSG. This research will benefit municipalities, governmental agencies, and power companies in decision making to respond to the increasing penetration of DER.

Biography:
Gasser Galal Ali is a first year PhD student in Dr. Islam El-adaway’s research group at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He received his MSc and BSc degrees from The American University in Cairo. He has broad skillset  and interest in computer modeling and simulation, computational intelligence, optimization, and statistical analysis.

Applications of Zintl Phases for Direct Thermal to Electrical Energy

Susan Kauzlarich, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor
Department of Chemistry
University of California,Davis

4:15 p.m.
Monday March 4, 2019
G3 Schrenk Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
There are many areas of science where progress is materials limited.  The synthesis and identification of new compounds that can lead to enhancements in existing technologies, or serve as the basis of revolutionary new technologies, is essential for developing new and improved technologies.  Zintl compounds can be described by a combination of ionic and covalent bonding, composed of electropositive cations which donate electrons to the more electronegative components that utilize the electrons to form vaious bonding motifs.  My group has focused on Zintl compounds for their structural, chemical, and electronic properties and I will present research on Zintl Phases for thermoelectric applications such as waste heat to electrical power conversion.

Biography:
Susan Kauzlarich has obtained her BS degree in 1980 from the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, and a PhD degree in 1985 from Michigan State University. After two years of post-doctoral study at Iowa State University she took up a position of Assistant professor in Chemistry in UC, Davis and was promoted to the rank of professor in 1996. Currently Prof. Kauzlarich is a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, University of California, Davis. She has led the department of Chemistry at UC, Davis from 2013 to 2016 and developed new materials chemistry courses in undergraduate chemistry majors. She was actively involved in developing a completely new general chemistry course that integrated lectures and laboratory components, which improved the critical learning of the students. She is a strong proponent for the involvement of under-represented minorities in science and actively involved in UC Davis Affirmative Action Committee, CAMPOS (the Center for Advancing Multicultural Perspectives on Science) and ACS SEED program. Beyond leadership Prof. Kauzlarich has been an extremely well-known scientist in the field of Materials and Solid State Chemistry. She has published more than 290 articles in peer-reviewed journals with more than 12,000 citations and an h-index of 61. She is a fellow of American Chemical Society (ACS) and American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). She has organized Gordon Research Conference in solid state Chemistry. Currently she is the chair-elect of AAAS (chemistry section). She was an associate editor of Journal of Solid State Chemistry (2000 -2005) and a current associate editor of Chemistry of Materials, a flagship journal of ACS.

Consequences of Simulated Anoxia and Algae Induced Eutrophication on Metal Release in Lake Coeur d’Alene

James Moberly, Ph.D., P.E.
Assistant Professor
Chemical and Materials Engineering
University of Idaho

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday February 28, 2019
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The Coeur d’Alene River (CDAR) system in northern Idaho encompasses a series of biologically productive and diverse lateral lakes and wetlands, including Coeur d’Alene Lake (CDAL), which have been impacted by decades of mining operations within the Coeur d’Alene mining district. It is hypothesized that metal contamination is currently masking a potential nutrient problem by suppressing photosynthetic microorganism and that as a consequence of positive steps that are being made to reduce the metal loading to the system, CDAL may experience increased eutrophication events induced by algae blooms that would have an unknown impact on legacy contaminants within the Lake.  Our research group measured temporal and spatial dynamics of heavy metals, nutrients, and microbial communities from intact CDAL sediment cores over an eight-week period under induced anoxia and algae amended samples. This talk will focus on the potential impacts of algal blooms and anoxia on CDAL through the lens of this study.

Biography:
Dr. James Moberly is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering at the University of Idaho. He received his bachelor’s from University of Idaho, master’s from Washington State University, and doctorate at Montana State University, all in Chemical Engineering. His post-doctoral work at Oak Ridge National Lab focused on biogeochemical transformation of mercury and microbial community interactions. Dr. Moberly continued his career as an environmental consultant before transitioning to faculty at UI. He has been examining heavy metal fate and transport within the Coeur d’Alene system (off and on) for nearly fifteen years. His research focuses on discovering how microorganisms or their bioproducts can be applied to solve complex interdisciplinary engineering and environmental problems, improve human health, and increase accessibility to high-quality water sources. 

Capacitive/Electrokinetic Processes for Water Purification and Protection of Groundwater

Sanjay Tewari, Ph.D.
Assistant Teaching Professor
Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Cooperative Engineering, Springfield MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday November 28, 2018
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Electrochemical processes such as electrokinetic (EK) and capacitive deionization (CDI) are increasingly being used for water treatment and protection of water sources, especially groundwater. The basic principle in both processes is same – applying electrical potential to control movement of charged species in water and/or water-rich soil/sand environment. Recently, CDI has been used in small-scale water purification units requiring low energy. Various parameters such as effective electrode surface area, separation distance of electrodes, applied DC voltage, and contact time have been studied extensively. The mass and size of target ions play some role the way these ions behave in CDI but their charge (valences) dominates their behavior in CDI. The recent research has been focused on surface modification of electrodes and the way these electrodes are arranged. In latest experiments, carbon aerogel fiber-paper based electrodes were subjected to nitric acid treatment and gold deposition. The performance of each electrode was assessed based on their adsorption capacities in four different configurations (two symmetric and two asymmetric). The highest salt removal capacity in this study was 8.0 mg of NaCl per g of electrode in asymmetric electrodes configuration with the gold-deposited electrode used as anode and untreated/uncoated electrode used as cathode. The research on CDI and EK is on-going with promising results. The electrokinetic barriers are being evaluated against salt-water intrusion in groundwater in laboratory conditions. The preliminary results point to effectiveness of these barriers.

Biography:
Dr. Tewari is an Assistant Teaching Professor in Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering at the Missouri University of Science & Technology and is actively working with Cooperative Engineering Program located in Springfield, MO. Prior to joining Missouri S&T, he worked as an Assistant Professor at Louisiana Tech University. Dr. Tewari has taught classes focused on environmental engineering, water resources engineering, fluid mechanics and engineering surveying. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering) from National Institute of Technology, Surat and Master of Technology (Chemical Engineering) from Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee in India before attending Texas A&M University where he earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Civil (Environmental) Engineering. His research efforts are focused on drinking water quality and issues related to wastewater treatment using physical, chemical and electro-chemical/kinetic processes. His recent research efforts have been in the area of application of geographic information systems to environmental management and sustainability, soil salinity and corrosion of metal pipes. Dr. Tewari also has keen interest in STEM education, improving diversity in STEM areas, inclusion of hands-on and digital tools in engineering curriculum.

Environmental Fate of Emerging Biopesticides from Genetically Modified Crops

Kimberly Parker, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering
Washington University
St. Louis, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday November 14, 2018
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
A primary goal of environmental chemistry and engineering is to characterize the impact of agricultural practices on human and ecosystem health. Currently, our agricultural sector is undergoing a revolution due to the ongoing development and adoption of agricultural biotechnology, which necessitates new approaches for effective ecological risk assessment of agricultural products and practices. For example, biopesticides produced in the tissue of genetically modified crops may pose different risks than conventional synthetic pesticides. In this seminar, Dr. Parker will provide a brief overview of the major advances and trends in agricultural biotechnology and her perspectives on what environmental chemists and engineers can contribute to this ongoing conversation. She will present her research on the environmental fate of novel double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) biopesticides produced by next-generation “RNA interference” (RNAi) crops. To enable this research, her group is developing approaches to accurately quantify dsRNA biopesticides in agricultural soils and other environmental media. Using these approaches, her group is advancing a process-focused understanding of the transport and degradation of dsRNA biopesticides in environmental system. By assessing the environmental fate of dsRNA biopesticides, this work contributes necessary data for the ecological risk assessment of next-generation RNAi crop protection biotechnology.

Biography:
Dr. Kimberly Parker is an assistant professor of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research explores environmental organic chemistry in agriculture, energy production, and aqueous systems. She earned her PhD at Stanford University, where she was supported by the Abel Wolman Fellowship (American Water Works Association), the Gerald J. Lieberman Fellowship (from Stanford for excellence in teaching), and the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship. She was then awarded a Marie Curie Individual Fellowship (European Commission) to conduct research at ETH Zurich (Switzerland) prior to joining the faculty at Washington University. Her research has been recognized with honors including the Best Science Paper of the Year published in Environmental Science & Technology (2016) and the Paul V. Roberts/AEESP Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award (2017).

Constructed wetlands to manage agricultural contamination

Nadège Oustriere, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday October 24, 2018
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Bordeaux area, France, is one of the largest wine producers in the world. With this intensive activity comes agricultural contamination of the environment. Copper-based fungicide used in vineyards generates significant amounts of Cu contaminated effluents (2,500,000 L year^-1). Spreading of residual diluted effluent on fields is authorized by the EU legislation and contributes to locally increased total soil Cu above the inquiry threshold values in topsoils. However, to avoid such unnecessary spreading, one option is to “rhizofiltrate” this effluent in constructed wetlands (CW). These CW are ecotechnological wastewater treatment systems where aquatic vegetation forms filters by their dense interwoven roots and rhizomes. Here, we investigate the ability of different species of macrophytes local from the Bordeaux region to clean up Cu-­­­­contaminated effluents. This allowed us to select the most relevant species to be planted in a CW. In a second time we created a pilot-scale CW, easy to reproduce in vineyards, and able to rhizofiltrate Cu-contaminated effluents. In these CW units, copper removal peaked within the first 48 hours. The effluent met the requirement for indirect discharge of chemical industry effluents in sanitary sewer systems. The next step is to test this CW directly in vineyards.

Biography:
Dr. Nadège Oustriere joined Dr. Burken’s research group last spring, in the department of Environmental Engineering at Missouri University of Science & Technology. She is a post-doc fellow and she is mainly working on mine reclamation. She earned her PhD at Bordeaux University, France, in ecology and ecotoxicology in 2016.

Closing the Knowing/Doing Gap

Glen T. Daigger, Ph.D., P.E., BCEE, NAE
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
University of Michigan,
Ann Arbor, Michigan

3:30 p.m.
Friday October 19, 2018
120 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Factors such as population and economic growth, resource scarcity, and climate change have created a time of “reinvention” for urban water management. Responses include the “One Water” concept where water managed in an integrated fashion within the urban area, rather than as separate “stove pipes”, and the blossoming interest in resource recovery from the used water stream. This is leading to dramatic changes in approaches to urban water management, and rapid advances in new and improved technologies to advance the objectives  underlying  these  over-arching trends. These dramatic changes also necessitate changes in professional practice to recognize the developmental nature of technologies which must be evaluated and either implemented today or allowed for in plans and designs, and the significant changes in the supporting infrastructure which will enable these new approaches. Understanding the life-cycle of technology development, including the importance of learning curves, when evaluating evolving technologies; using risk and opportunity analysis as a formal step in options analysis; and including visioning and scenario analysis as regularly used components of professional practice become essential components of professional practice if we are to  seize  the  potential  opportunities  before us. Right now a significant gap exists between what we “know” we can do and what we are actually “doing”. Available and developing approaches to plan and implement evolutionary and adaptable urban water management infrastructure will then be discussed.

Biography:
Dr. Glen T. Daigger is currently Professor of Engineering Practice at the University of Michigan and President and Founder of One Water Solutions, LLC, a water engineering and innovation firm. He previously served as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for CH2M HILL where he was employed for 35 years, and as Professor and Chair of Environmental Systems Engineering at Clemson University. Actively engaged in the water profession through major projects, and as author or co-author of more than 100 technical papers, four books, and several technical manuals, he contributes to significantly advance practice within the water profession. He has advised many of the major cities of the world, including New York, Los Angles, San Francisco, Singapore, Hong Kong, Istanbul, and Beijing. The recipient of numerous awards, including the Kappe, Freese, and Feng lectures and the Harrison Prescott Eddy, Morgan, and the Gascoigne Awards, he is a Distinguished Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, a Distinguished Fellow of IWA, and a Fellow of the Water Environment Federation. A member of a number of professional societies, Dr. Daigger is Past President of IWA and a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineers.

Mapping Groundwater from Afar: Unlocking New Information with Satellites and Airborne Geophysics

Ryan Smith, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday October 10, 2018
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
California’s recent decade-long drought caused severe groundwater depletion in the San Joaquin Valley, an important agricultural region where ~10% of the nation’s produce is grown. A few snapshots of this groundwater depletion was observed with InSAR, an advanced satellite method that can measure cm-scale fluctuations of the land surface related to groundwater fluxes. Modeling the relationship between subsidence and groundwater depletion is challenging, because so much subsurface information is required to do so accurately. Here, we integrate multiple geological and geophysical datasets with InSAR to build accurate models that characterize groundwater depletion during the drought. This allows us to extract more useful hydrogeological information from these datasets, providing water managers with tools to map and model deformation due to changes in the groundwater system, as well as its impacts on groundwater storage and quality.

Biography:
Dr. Ryan Smith joined the Geological Engineering program at Missouri S&T this fall as an Assistant Professor. He earned his Ph.D. at Stanford University in Geophysics in 2018, and his B.S. in Geology at Brigham Young University, Utah in 2014. Dr. Smith is a remote sensing hydrologist. He studies water resources by combining satellite, airborne and ground-based geophysical datasets, using both physics-based models and machine learning techniques.

Drones, aircraft and an inflatable banana, A quick review of Manchester

Paul Williams, Ph.D.
Research Fellow
School of Earth and Environmental Sciences
University of Manchester
University, UK

3:30 p.m.
Tuesday September 4, 2018
318 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The Centre for Atmospheric Science (CAS) at the University of Manchester has many research activities ranging from fundamental SOA production in its photochemical environmental chamber, to large scale ambient air quality programs in India and China. The talk will give an overview of the activities, focusing on some of the key work including recent advances in quantifying methane fluxes from landfill sites using drones, development of regulatory emissions measurements from large gas turbine engines and the work on black carbon.

Biography:
Paul I. Williams is a research fellow at the University of Manchester. He works in the School of Earth and Environmental Science, within the Centre for Atmospheric research group. His roll is funded by the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) as an Aerosol Instrument Scientist. His main activities involve maintaining the suite of particle characterisation equipment at Manchester and deploying the equipment as part of the group's research activities. He runs a short course in Practical Aerosol Science, sponsored by TSI Ltd, which teaches participants the theory and practical elements to aerosol measurement. 

 He will be bringing the banana. 

Cardiovascular effects of ambient PM_2.5: The roles of particle compositions and source categories

Lung-Chi Chen, Ph.D.
Professor
Director of Inhalation Facility,
Deptartment of Environmental Medicine
New York University School of Medicine
Web: http://www.med.nyu.edu/biosketch/lcc4

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday April 25, 2018
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Particulate matter, an ambient air criteria pollutant, is a complex mixture of chemical components. We conducted four studies as part of HEI’s integrated National Particle Component Toxicity (NPACT) Initiative research program. Data from the Chemical Speciation Net- work (CSN) enabled us to conduct a limited time-series epidemiologic study of short-term morbidity and mortality; and a study of the associations between long-term average pollutant concentrations and annual mortality. We also conducted a series of 6-month subchronic inhalation exposure studies (6 hours/day, 5 days/week) of PM_2.5 concentrated 10X from ambient air (CAPs) with apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice (a mouse model of atherosclerosis). The CAPs studies were conducted in five different U.S. airsheds (New York City; Tuxedo, NY; East Lansing Michigan; Seattle Washington; Irvine, California); we measured the daily mass concentrations of PM_2.5, black carbon (BC), and 16 elemental components in order to identify their sources and their roles in eliciting both short- and long-term health-related responses. In addition, from the same five airsheds we collected samples of coarse (PM_10–2.5), fine (PM_2.5–0.2), and ultrafine (PM_0.2) particles. Aliquots of these samples were administered to cells in vitro and to mouse lungs in vivo (by aspiration) in order to determine their comparative acute effects.

Overall, the studies have demonstrated that the toxicity of PM is driven by a complex interaction of particle size range, geographic location, source category, and season. Across all studies, fossil-fuel combustion source categories were most consistently associated with both short- and long- term adverse effects of PM_2.5 exposure. The components that originate from the Residual Oil Combustion and Traffic source categories were most closely associated with short-term effects; and components from the Coal Combustion category were more closely associated with long-term effects.

The results of these complementary studies, and the overall integrative analyses, provide a basis for guiding future research and for helping to determine more targeted emission controls for the PM components most hazardous to acute and chronic health. Application of the knowledge gained in this work may therefore contribute to an optimization of the public health benefits of future PM emission controls.

Key Interests:
Nanoparticle Toxicity and functional utilization, The role of health disparity in air pollution-induced cardiopulmonary diseases, Gene-environment interactions in environmentally induced diseases, Effects of particulate air pollution in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, Mechanisms of air pollution induced asthma, Pollutant-induced alterations in biological response modifiers and associated membrane receptors, Signal transductionpathways associated with oxidative stress. 

Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment:  A Vision to Enable Decentralized Water Treatment and Address Growing Challenges of the Water Energy Nexus

Pedro J.J. Alvarez, Ph.D.
George R. Brown Professor
Civil & Environmental Engineering
Rice University
Houston, TX

2:00 p.m.
Thursday April 12, 2018
125 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Through control over material size, morphology and chemical structure, nanotechnology offers novel materials that are nearly “all surface” and that can be more reactive per atom than bulk materials. Such engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) can offer superior catalytic, adsorptive, optical, quantum, electrical and/or antimicrobial properties that enable multi-functional technology platforms for next-generation water treatment. This presentation will address emerging opportunities for nanotechnology to improve the selectivity and efficiency to remove priority pollutants, decrease electrical energy requirements, and meet a growing need for safer and more affordable decentralized water treatment and reuse. Because water is by far the largest waste stream of the energy industry, we will also discuss technological innovation to enable produced water reuse in remote (off-grid) oil and gas fields, to minimize freshwater withdrawal and disposal challenges. Examples of applicable nano-enabled technologies include fouling-resistant membranes with embedded ENMs that allow for self-cleaning and repair; capacitive deionization with highly conductive and selective electrodes to remove multivalent ions that precipitate or cause scaling; rapid magnetic separation using superparamagnetic nanoparticles; solar-thermal processes enabled by nanophotonics to desalinate with membrane distillation; disinfection and advanced oxidation using nanocatalysts; and nanostructured surfaces that discourage microbial adhesion and protect infrastructure against biofouling and corrosion. We envision using these enabling technologies to develop compact modular water treatment systems that are easy to deploy and can treat challenging waters to protect human lives and support sustainable economic development.

Biography:
Pedro J.J. Alvarez is the George R. Brown Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University, where he also serves as Director of the NSF ERC on Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT). His research interests include environmental implications and applications of nanotechnology, bioremediation, fate and transport of toxic chemicals, water footprint of biofuels, water treatment and reuse, and antibiotic resistance control. Pedro received the B. Eng. Degree in Civil Engineering from McGill University and MS and Ph.D. degrees in Environmental Engineering from the University of Michigan. He is the 2012 Clarke Prize laureate and also won the 2014 AAEES Grand Prize for Excellence in Environmental Engineering and Science. Past honors include President of AEESP, the AEESP Frontiers in Research Award, the WEF McKee Medal for Groundwater Protection, the SERDP cleanup project of the year award, and various best paper awards with his students. Pedro currently serves on the advisory board of NSF Engineering Directorate and as Associate Editor of Environmental Science and Technology. He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2018.

Water for Food, Water for Life: Strategies for Improving Ecosystem Services Under Environmental Change

Noel Aloysius, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Bioengineering and School of Natural Resources
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday March 21, 2018
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Population growth and increasing demand for food and services necessitate an increasingly productive agricultural sector, and the expansion of human interference into natural areas. Increasingly, these managed areas pose risks to public health, impair water quality and other valued ecosystem services. Overexploitation of water resources for food production limit availability and accessibility of water for other valued ecosystem services. In this presentation, I present contrasting case studies that elucidate the challenges ahead in sustainably managing our water resources. Big changes in policy agenda are required in order to ensure food and water security for the present and future generations.

Biography:
Noel Aloysius is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Bioengineering and the School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri. He completed his PhD at Yale University, masters at the University of North Dakota and bachelors degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. His research seeks to uncover how key drivers and mechanisms, both natural and anthropogenic, affect water and nutrient flow pathways and predict their behavior under environmental change. Prior to joining MU, he was a postdoctoral researcher scholar at The Ohio State University.

Multifunctional Nanoscale Platform Materials for Advanced Environmental Applications

John D. Fortner, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering
Washington University
St. Louis, MO

3:30 p.m.
Friday February 16, 2018
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
This presentation will focus on the design, synthesis, and demonstration of tunable, nanoscale, material platforms for advanced environmental applications.  First, I will present of our recent work on aggregation resistant, ‘crumpled’ graphene-based nanocomposites, which allow for a unique membrane approach (and properties) when assembled as thin films. The as-synthesized, core-shell nanostructured composites, with controllable size and functionality (including magnetic susceptibility and TiO₂ loading), show significantly enhanced aqueous stability and tunable photocatalytic activity due composite geometry, surface/graphene chemistry, and increased lifetime of photo-induced holes.  In addition, crumpled graphene-TiO₂ nanocomposite films, deposited/stabilized atop a support membrane (polyethersulfone (PES)), readily reject and (photo)degrade model aqueous pollutants.  Further, facile photocatalytic (photoreduction-based) in situ synthesis (and subsequent regeneration) of silver nanoparticles, which are antimicrobial, is demonstrated at the membrane surface under operating conditions.  For the second part of the presentation, I will discuss our progress towards the development and application of monodisperse, magnetic metal oxide nanocrystals (e.g. iron oxide (Fe₃O₄), manganese oxide (Mn_xO_y), and manganese ferrite nanocrystals (Mn_zFe_3-zO₄)) of varying size, shape, composition, and surface chemistries for optimized metal/metalloid adsorption, separation and quantification, among other applications.  Specifically, I will highlight results from a matrix evaluation of serially synthesized 8-30 nm metal oxides with tailored organic surface coatings designed to target uranium (as uranyl) in varied water chemistries.  Optimized materials demonstrate  some of the highest uranyl sorption capacities of any sorbent to date.  Mechanistically, we show that sorption enhancement is due not only to thermodynamically favorable interfacial interactions (for both particle and selected bilayer coatings), but also due to significant uranyl reduction at the particle interface itself.  Further, due to high particle monodispersivity and aqueous stabilities, residues geometries can be arranged as close-packed, sub-micron thin film geometries, which minimize self-shielding and thus allow for optimal α-particle detection strategies needed for low-level uranyl sensing.

Biography:
As an associate professor within the Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering (EECE) at Washington University in St. Louis (WUStL), Professor Fortner has developed a highly successful research program focused on developing and advancing water-related technologies and understanding/engineering interfacial processes, typically at the nanoscale, as they relate to environmental-based health, security, and energy challenges.

Characterizing pore structure and flow properties in subsurface

Chi Zhang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Geology
University of Kansas

3:30 p.m.
Wednesday January 24, 2018
124 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
The complex behavior and coupled dynamics of water and energy systems require highly integrated and innovative research strategy (sensing technology, data analysis, and adaptable model) to enhance the understanding of the tightly coupled physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern the behavior of geologic media and their constituent fluids (water, brine, CO₂, and hydrocarbons) from the micro- to macro-scale. My research jointly utilizes hydrogeological, geophysical, and biogeochemical information, coupling with theoretical and numerical simulations to accurately describe the subsurface and to monitor physical, chemical, and biological processes occurring within it. In this talk, I will provide an overview of my research on characterizing pore attributes and fluid flow properties in the subsurface and the relevant applications to water, energy, and environment. I will describe how to estimate porosity, pore size distribution, surface area, and permeability in complex carbonate rocks from electrical geophysical measurements and nuclear magnetic resonance from pore to field scale. The laboratory measurements are coupled with µCT imaging and physics-based numerical simulations of pore attributes and geophysical responses to quantify petrophysical properties during various geological processes including physical and biogeochemical alternations. The ultimate goal of my research is to facilitate the application of geophysical techniques in critical hydrogeological and energy investigations across multiple scales. For more information, please visit http://www.chizhanggeophysics.com/research.html.

Biography:
Dr. Chi Zhang joins the University of Kansas (KU) as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geology in 2015. Prior to coming to KU, she was a postdoctoral scholar at Idaho National Laboratory, Colorado School of Mines, and Rutgers University during 2011 – 2014. Dr. Zhang received her B.S. in Environmental Science from Sun Yat-Sen University in China and her Ph.D. in Environmental Geophysics from Rutgers University. Dr. Zhang’s research interests focus on the development of geophysical monitoring approaches sensitive to alterations of physicochemical properties in different porous media/rocks at various scales and the investigation of the geophysical responses of biological and geochemical processes in the subsurface. In addition, Dr. Zhang’s research group develops physics-based petrophysical and geophysical models using digital rock physics.

Azin Eftekhari Ph.D. student
Civil, Architectural & Environmental Engineering
Missouri S&T

3:30 p.m.
Friday May 5, 2017
Room 121 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) as an important class of indoor pollutants are of great health concern. They can be found in a variety of consumer products used indoors. They can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation and dermal uptake. Recently, dermal uptake from clothing has been shown to be an important contributor to the body burden of some phthalate esters. The cloth-air partition coefficient, Kcloth-air, is a key parameter in estimating dermal uptake from clothing. The partition coefficient is defined at the equilibrium concentration in the fabric divided by the air concentration. Since semi-volatile organic compounds partition very slowly to fabrics, measurements of equilibrium partition coefficients can take many days or months; therefore a method that reduces the time to reach equilibrium is needed for efficient experimental work. In this research, we demonstrated that the partition coefficient, , can be measured very rapidly using the headspace analysis of vials containing cloth with a known area dosed with a known mass of the two SVOC’s considered in this study, diethyl phthalate (DEP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). The known mass of SVOCs were applied to the cloth in an appropriate volatile solvent carrier and after evaporation of solvent, the cloth was placed in a 20 ml headspace vial and allowed to equilibrate with the air in the vial. Since the volume of headspace air is small, the total mass required to transfer from cloth to air is small and also the time required is very short (a few minutes). The, partition coefficients for the two phthalate esters, DEP and DnBP, and jean (cotton) were measured at two temperatures of . We found  and  for DEP and  and  for DnBP at , respectively (). These results neatly bound values generated at 25ºC using other, more time consuming methods. This proof of concept for two phthalates suggests that the partition coefficients can be rapidly measured for many compounds, simultaneously for many fabric types.

Biography:
Azin Eftekhari is a PhD student in Dr. Glenn Morrison’s research group in the department of Environmental Engineering at Missouri University of Science & Technology. She received her bachelor’s and master’s in Chemical Engineering in Azad University of North Tehran Branch in 2007 and 2010. Her first interaction with environmental engineering happened when she started her first job in industrial waste water treatment plant and then she became familiar to air pollution researches mainly by starting her job in MATN Research Institute that they studied all environmental pollution effects of 20 power plants in Iran. She joined to Dr. Morrison’s research group on Fall 2015. She has been working on Semi Volatile Organic Compounds and their partitioning with materials present in buildings.

Craig Adams, PhD, PE, F.ASCE
Oliver L. Parks Endowed Chair & Professor
Dept. of Civil Engineering
St. Louis University

3:30 p.m.
Friday April 28, 2017
Room 121 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Controlling cyanotoxins from hazardous algal blooms (HAB) is a significant and increasing challenge for drinking water utilities in Missouri and throughout the nation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency promulgated in 2015 new health advisories for microcystins and cylindrospermopsin of 0.3 and 0.7 µg/L, respectively, for infants. Controlling these cyanotoxins as well anatoxin a and saxitoxin, can be complex due to complicating factors. For example, cyanotoxins can enter a water treatment plant in either the intracellular form (within a cyanobacteria) or extracellular form (in the water phase). Oxidation of cyanobacteria with chlorine, ozone and permanganate at the intake or anywhere prior to filtration all can cause the release of these intracellular toxins. A further complication to treatment strategies includes that certain oxidant/cyanotoxin combinations achieve rapid toxin removal for other combinations are very slow. The purpose of this talk is to present critical issues and tools (including the AWWA model Hazen-Adams CyanoTOX Ver. 2) for dealing with HABs and their associated toxins.

Biography:
Dr. Adams is the Oliver Parks Professor of Engineering in the Department of Civil Engineering at Saint Louis University. He is a Fellow of ASCE and a registered professional engineer. Dr. Adams conducts research in the Water Quality and Treatment Laboratory at SLU on the oxidation and sorption processes for drinking water contaminants (including pharmaceuticals, cyanotoxins, taste-and-odor compounds, disinfection byproducts, andother compounds). His research group uses a fundamental approach to address water quality and treatment issues to develop actionable guidance for utilities in Missouri and beyond. His group also focuses on developing point-of-use treatment technology for use in developing nations. Dr. Adams is active in AWWA and other professional organizations.

Marcus Foston, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering
Washington University, St. Louis, MO

3:30 p.m.
Friday December 2, 2016
Room 121 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri University of Science and Technology

Abstract:
The lignin component of biomass has potential as a renewable source for industrially useful aromatic chemicals. While technologies for the selective conversion of the carbohydrate components have been successful, lignin is generally treated as waste and burned for low grade heat. We have developed a catalytic system, based on a copper-doped porous oxide, which can reductively disassemble lignin in supercritical methanol with little to no char formation. While the copper-doped porous oxide catalyzes C-O hydrogenolysis of aryl-ether bonds linking lignin monomers, it also catalyzed ring methylation and hydrogenation, leading to lignin disassembly product proliferation. We have found that adding dimethyl carbonate can significantly suppress the hydrogenation of the phenolic intermediates responsible for much of the undesirable product diversity by methylation of phenolic hydroxyl groups to form a more stable aryl ether species. Using the methanol and dimethyl carbonate solvent system with the copper-doped porous oxide catalyst, O-methylation of phenolic hydroxyl groups was effective at increasing aromatic yields from a number of lignin model polymer systems and poplar organosolv lignin. These results demonstrate the promise of our copper-doped porous oxide catalyst when used in the presence of methanol and dimethyl carbonate to facilitate aromatic compound production from lignin.

Biography: 
Marcus Foston is an assistant professor in the Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering Department at Washington University in St Louis. He received his PhD in polymer chemistry in the Material Science and Engineering Department at the Georgia Institute of Technology and soon after completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the Georgia Institute of Technology. His current research program is directed at the development of innovative and novel routes to exploit and utilize biomass resources. Dr. Marcus Foston primary research themes are: (1) the characterization of biomass in an effort to understand, design, and optimize its downstream conversion, (2) the development of processes that are designed to convert lignin into value-added chemicals and materials, and (3) the synthesis novel biomass-derived synthetic polymers for specific applications.

Full title: 
Toxicological Characteristics of Ambient Particulate Matter - An assessment of the relative contributions from various aerosol components and their emission sources

Vishal Verma, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

3:30 p.m.
Friday November 11, 2016
Room 121 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
A number of epidemiological, toxicological and clinical studies indicate a strong link between ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure and adverse health outcomes. Despite commendable progress in particle-related toxicological research for the last few decades, the exact mechanisms by which PM inflicts health injuries are still largely unknown. The core objective of this work is to identify the components of ambient PM and their emission sources, which are most responsible for inducing the adverse health effects in humans. The capability of the ambient particles to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its linkages with their source-specific components are investigated. The role of organic compounds in the ROS activity of PM was assessed by their removal using thermodenuder and solid phase extraction technique, while the contribution of metals was quantified by chelation technique. A class of water-soluble organic compounds characterized by their strong hydrophobicity known as humic-like substances or HULIS, and transition metals particularly Fe, Cu and Mn were identified as the major species driving the ROS generation mechanism in ambient particles. Source apportionment of the ROS generation using positive matrix factorization revealed that biomass burning and secondary organic aerosol formation as the strongest sources of ROS activity in southeastern United States. Further studies in this direction should help to develop the useful insights on the origin of PM toxicity leading to a better assessment of the human health effects of ambient particulate pollution. This in turn would facilitate devising effective control strategies targeted on combating toxic PM emission sources and protecting public health.

Biography: 
Dr. Verma is an assistant professor at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and his current work is focused on measuring the toxicological properties of ambient air pollutants, investigating their emission sources and linkages with the observed health effects. Before joining here in last August, he was a research scientist at Georgia Tech. He completed his PhD from the University of Southern California in 2011. In his 8 years of research career, he has published 20 peer-reviewed articles and has presented his work in more than 25 various seminars/meetings and conferences, including several invited talks.

Dr. Dwayne A. Elias, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Assistant Professor, Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee
Adjunct Associate Professor, Biological Sciences, Missouri S&T

3:30 p.m.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Room 314 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Mercury (Hg) is a pervasive global contaminant of concern impacting human and ecosystem health. Mercury methylation produces the neurotoxic, highly bioaccumulative methylmercury (MeHg). The genes responsible for this activity were recently identified after a >40 years search. The highly conserved nature of these genes (hgcAB) provides a foundation for broadly evaluating spatial and niche-specific patterns of microbial Hg-methylation potential in nature. Discovery and validation of the hgcAB genes has provided a starting point to further understand Hg methylation at a variety of scales, from the atomic to ecosystems and our recent work at these scales will be discussed.

Biography:
Dr. Dwayne Elias has been involved in environmental microbiology for more than 15 years with a particular focus on microbial community dynamics and metals of concern, including U, Tc, and Hg. The overall focus in the Elias laboratory is to forward efforts in bioremediation and advance preventative measures in risk management to avert contamination from occurring. Dr. Elias is regarded by the US Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation as an expert in microbial ecology and physiology. Dr. Elias currently leads two major efforts at ORNL for the DOE in Hg research and microbial community responses to organic and inorganic contaminants. He also is currently a contributing investigator to two efforts for the National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Elias received his doctorate from the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and has since graduated 5 Ph.D. students and mentored 9 post-doctoral and 1 post-masters fellows along with several summer high school students. Since 2002, Dr. Elias has published 76 refereed articles in scientific journals, 5 patents, 7 invention disclosures, 3 book chapters and delivered 204oral and poster presentations at national and international meetings. Dr. Elias also serves as an Academic Editor at the PLoS One Journal, an Associate Editor at the Frontiers in Microbiology Journal and a scientific advisory committee member for the Department of Energy.

Sara Parker Pauley
Director
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Jefferson City, MO

2:00 p.m.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Room 125 Butler-Carlton Hall
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Missouri’s Department of Natural Resources provides research, planning, protection and enhancement of Missouri’s waters through the work of dedicated staff and partners. Director Pauley will discuss various integrated efforts the department is employing to ensure the citizens of the state and its visitors enjoy clean and abundant water for generations to come.

Biography:
Sara Parker Pauley leads the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to protect our air, land and water; preserve our unique natural and historic places; and provide recreational and learning opportunities for everyone. Pauley began as director in December 2010 and is the second female to lead the agency. She received both her law degree and her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia, completed post-graduate studies in Australia as a Rotary Fellow and was an instructor for MU’s School of Natural Resources. She is also a graduate of Columbia's Hickman High School. During her career, Pauley has worked in the executive and legislative branches of state government, both fish and wildlife environmental agencies in state government, profit and nonprofit sectors and with federal, state and local governments. Under her leadership, Pauley has worked on policy development, marketing, environmental compliance, and built and improved relationships with Missouri’s communities, business and industry, the environmental community, legislators, and the public to make Missouri a leader in innovative resource conservation, while protecting our outdoor heritage for generations to come.

Dr. Santosh K. Mishra
ERC Research Chemist - Missouri S&T

3:30 PM
Friday, February 21, 2014 
Room 314 Butler Carlton Hall- Civil Building
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
Aerosols scatter solar radiation and affect climate, hence it is important to characterize changes in atmospheric aerosols due to anthropogenic sources. Trace metals in aerosols, acts as markers in identifying generic source type and are used as indicator of pollutant transport. This talk will provide an overview of analytical instrumentation for sensitive and trace level detection of organic and inorganic species in atmospheric aerosols as well as several vital pioneering contributions in developing capillary chromatography instrumentation. Pharmaceuticals, non-biodegradable emerging contaminants, often pass through elimination steps of water and wastewater treatment plants. This talk will also focus on the oxidative degradation of commonly used antibiotic and analgesic from water using novel green chemical – Ferrate. Hydrogen Cyanide is the quickest acting of all poisons. Rapid quantification of blood cyanide is very important in clinical examination and on-site forensic investigations to detect victim’s cyanide exposure and to determine the antidote to be administered in order to save human life. This talk will also shed light on invention of new miniature rapid-point-of-care miniature cyanide detector.

Biography:
Dr. Santosh Mishra is an Analytical Chemist and newly appointed Research Chemist at the Environmental Research Center at Missouri S&T. He has previously served as Technology Development Senior Process Engineer at Intel’s R&D fabrication facility in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Mishra has BS degree in Chemical Engineering from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai; MS degree in Chemistry from the Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida and PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas. He holds memberships in numerous professional organizations and scientific research journals. Dr. Mishra has research interests and authored numerous papers in the areas of analytical instrumentation and analysis of atmospheric organic and inorganic contaminants.

Kwame Awuah-Offei
Associate Professor
Mining & Nuclear Engineering Department
Missouri S&T

3:30 p.m.
Friday, February 14, 2014 
Room 314 Butler Carlton Hall- Civil Building
Missouri S&T

Abstract:
A defining feature of spatial data is autocorrelation of observations in space (i.e. observations close to each other in space are likely to be similar than those that are far apart). Spatial data can be classified by the characteristics of the d-dimensional domain into lattice, point patterns, and geostatistical data. The presence of spatial autocorrelation has specific implications for analysis, which if ignored lead to invalid inferences. The goal of this seminar is to present, and encourage discussion on: (i) the limitations of classical statistical models when applied to spatial data; and (ii) the specific answers that geostatistical analysis can provide in geo-environmental research. The presentation will use specific examples of heavy metal soil contamination and soil CO₂ emissions to illustrate the value of geostatistical analysis to geo-environmental research.

Biography:
Dr. Kwame Awuah-Offei is currently an associate professor of mining engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He hold a PhD and BS(Hons) in mining engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, respectively. His current research interests include geostatistics, stochastic processes, and modeling, simulation, and optimization of mining systems .He has over 12 years research experience. He has industry experience in surface gold and aggregates operations. He is nationally active in the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) is the current Chair of the Sustainable Development Committee.