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Past REU Programs

The 2018 NSF REU Program, which consisted of 16 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Brittany Anderson

Fayetteville State University

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

"Loratadine Solubility Enhancement by Amorphouse Solid Dispersions with CCAB"

Corey Davis

Emory and Henry College

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

"Vat Photopolymerization of Biodegradable PLGA-Based Personalized Dosage Pharmaceuticals"

Miranda De La Garza

Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Amanda Morris (Chemistry)

"Post-Synthetic Modification of Porphyrinic Zirconium Metal-Organic Frameworks for Energy Efficient Desalination"

Kylie DeClue

Pittsburg State University

Carolina Tallon (Materials Science and Engineering)

"Improved Templating of Porous TiO2 by pH Change of CNC-H2O Solution on Control of CNC-Titania Dispersion"

Roger Dias

University of Southern Mississippi

Michael Schulz (Chemistry)

"Metal Sequestration Using Sulfonamide-Based Macrocycles"

Charles Ellis

N.C. State University

Christopher Williams (Mechanical Engineering)

"A Comprehensive Study on the Effect of Acetaminophen in Powder Bed Jet Printing"

George Funk

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

Michael Bortner (Chemical Engineering)

"Morphological Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystal and Cellulose Nanofibril Composites"

Sherrie Heinz-Kunert

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

Michael Schulz (Chemistry)

"Elucidating the Effect of Polymer Architecture on Heavy Metal Chelation"

Miharu Koh

Allegheny College

Blake Johnson (Industrial and Systems Engineering)

"Dynamic-Mode Cantilever Sensing in Hydrogels"

Kristofer Kristofferson

Ohio Northern University

Justin Barone (Biological Systems Engineering)

"Cyclic Hydrogel Actuators Based on an Enzyme-Substrate Feedback System"

Elle McKenzie

Vassar College

Greg Liu (Chemistry)

"Metal-Containing Poly (ether imide)s: The Effects of Divalent Metal Cations as Ionic Crosslinkers on Mechanical and Thermal Properties"

John Migliore

Bethel University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

"Synthesis and Characterization of Bioderived Polyureas for Controlled Ammonia Release"

Ami Patel

University of North Carolina-Charlotte

John Matson (Chemistry)

"Synthesizing Tapered (Cone-Shaped) Bottlebrush Polymers by Sequential Addition of Macromonomers"

Emily Plunkett

University of Virginia

Cristina Fernandez Fraguas (Food Science and Technology)

"Optimizing Chitosan and 𝛾-cyclodextin for Electrospinning"

Mary Shingler

Bridgewater College

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

"Improving the Durability of Portland Cement Concrete Using Poly(dimethylsiloxane-ethylene oxide) Admixture"

Adrienne Smiley

Fisk University

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

"Studying Intermolecular Forces within Molecular Ionic Composites"

The 2017 NSF REU Program, which consisted of 17 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Benjamin Adams

Christopher Newport University

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Polysaccharide Based Delivery Vehicles for Controlled Release of Agrochemicals and Biologically Active Compounds

Moala Bannavti

Delaware State University

Michael Bortner (Chemical Engineering)

Emissions in Extrusion-based Additive Manufacturing: Impact on Food, Energy, and Water

James Brown

Saint Bonaventure University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Plant-Signaled Delivery: Water and Fertilizer on Demand

Jarrod Cartwright

Virginia Commonwealth University

Christopher Williams (Mechanical Engineering)

3D Printing Tissue Scaffolds with Varying Pore Sizes Using an AMPS-PEGDA Photopolymer

Catherine Dadmun

College of Charleston

Susan Duncan (Food Science and Technology)

Material interference to minimize photon excitation of riboflavin for protecting milk nutrients and flavor quality

Rachel Hand

Michigan State University

Susan Duncan (Food Science and Technology)

Packaging Efficacy for Protecting Milk Freshness Stored in High Energy LED Retail Conditions

Alex Hitomi

University of California-Davis

Blake Johnson (Industrial and Systems Engineering)

PEDOT:PSS Electrodes in 3D Printed Flexible Biosensors for Food and Water Safety

Tra Lai

Texas A&M University

Zhiting Tian (Mechanical Engineering)

Recycling and Managing Heat Energy Using Advanced Poly(pyrrole) Network and PNIPAm Hydrogel

Jason Linn

Case Western University

Robert Moore (Chemistry)

An exploration of phosphonated poly (ether ether ketone) properties for desalination applications

Yishan Ma

University of Cincinnati

Johan Foster (Materials Science and Engineering)

Functionalization of Cellulose Nanocrystals With β-Cyclodextrin as Water Treatment Binding Bisphenol A 

Jared May

Pennsylvania State University

Amanda Morris (Chemistry)

Corrole-Based Zr-Metal-Organic Frameworks for Light Capture

Hannah Phan

Virginia Tech

Christopher Williams (Mechanical Engineering)

A study of nanoparticle binder’s impact on the binder jetting additive manufacturing process

Ralph Romero

Virginia Tech

Shengfeng Cheng (Physics)

Novel Model of Carbon Nanotubes for High Performance Filtration Systems

Ashley Saunders

Pennsylvania State University

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

Photoresponsiveness of Polymer Ionic Liquid Composites Analyzed Through UV-Vis and Fluorescence Spectroscopies

Jessica Thomas

University of Florida

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Design of Polyetherimide Nanoparticles for Improved Efficiency in Composite Manufacturing

Elizabeth Ventrella

Florida State University

Xiaoyu Rayne Zheng (Mechanical Engineering)

Taking Charge: Incorporating Energy-Harvesting Piezoelectrics into Large-Area Projection Microstereolithography 3D Printing

Haley Young

Elizabethtown College

John Matson (Chemistry)

Sustained Release of Hydrogen Sulfide via Polymeric Donors

The 2016 NSF REU program, which consisted of 15 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Hannah Cornell

Wake Forest University

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

NMR studies of Water in Acetylated and Unmodified Wood 

Thomas Cotey

Case Western Reserve University

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Design and Fabrication of Chitosan Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Rosmarinic Acid

Keyton Fuller

University of Wisconsin Platteville

Christopher Williams (Mechanical Engineering)

3D Printing of Ceramic Suspensions using Microstereolithography toward Water and Gas Filtration

Anna Fraser

University of Tennessee

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Post-Modified Polybenzimidazole Membranes for Gas Separation of H2 and CO

Noah Griggs

Virginia Tech

Gordon Yee

Synthesis of Phthalonitrile-Containing Siloxane Polymers for Semiconductor Power Module

Killian Horatz

University of Cologne

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Ion-containing Polycaprolactone-based Copolymers for 3D Printing Biodegradable Devices for Agriculture

Brittany Huffman

University of Virginia

Amanda Morris (Chemistry)

A Study of the Electrocatalytic Activity of Metal-Organic Framework PCN-223 in the Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Christopher Long

University of Virginia

Bradford Mills (Agricultural Economics)

Characteristics or Culture?: Determinants of Household Energy Use Behavior in China, Germany, and the USA

Alyssa Melvin

Gannon University

Robert Moore (Chemistry)

Membrane Capacitive Deionization Using Electrospun Carbon Nanofibrous Electrodes

Amy Plechacek

Virginia Tech

John Chermak

Trace Element Analysis of Gas Shales by Laser Ablation ICP-MS: Implications for Mobility

Nathan Spear

Purdue University

John Matson (Chemistry)

Alkyl Modification of Block Copolymers as a Means to Tailor Controlled Release

Maria Stang

Ohio State University

Blake Johnson (Industrial and Systems Engineering)

3D Printed Biosensor for Food and Water Safety

Limor Steinberg

University of Virginia

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Biosourced, Isocyanate-free Polyureas as Controlled-Release Fertilizers

Maria Vratsanos

Case Western Reserve University

Christopher Williams (Mechanical Engineering)

Novel Photocurable Molecules for Stereolithography with Electrochemical and Biomedical Applications

Sarah Wollman

Virginia Tech

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

Fabrication and Understanding of a Polymer Electrolyte for Battery Applications

The 2015 NSF REU program, which consisted of 11 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Nels Anderson

NW Missouri State

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Immunoglobulin on Cellulose and Chitin Films using Surface Plasmon Resonance

Michelle Corley

Winthrop University

John Matson (Chemistry)

Optimization of the Transfer-To Approach for Bottlebrush Polymer Synthesis

Thomas Cotey

Case Western Reserve University

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Design and Fabrication of Chitosan Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Rosmarinic Acid

Matthew Long

University of Virginia

Behareh Behkam (Mechanical Engineering)

Nanoscale Bacteria-Enabled Drug Delivery System Optimization

Fiorella Mazzini

Virginia Tech

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of a Heteroditopic AB Monomer for Polypseudorotaxane Host-Guest Supramolecular Polymer Systems

Katherine Miller

Richard Stockton College

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

Time-Resolved Block Copolymer Micelle Unimer Dynamics

Donald Savacool

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene oxide) and Bisphenol A Poly(arylene ether ketone) Blends for Gas Separation Membranes

Jacob Troutman

Wingate University

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Creating Functional Variety in Hydroxypropyl Cellulose using Olefin Cross-Metathesis

Dyland Turpeinen

Michigan Technological University

Chang Lu (Chemical Engineering)

Negative Isolation of Monocytes from Mouse Whole Blood via Polydimethylsiloxane Microfluidic Devices

Geoffrey Vaartstra

Syracuse University

Amrinder Nain (Mechanical Engineering)

Breast Cancer Single-Cell Motility and Contractile Force Measurements on STEP Suspended Fibers

Kristen Wek

Case Western Reserve University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Nucleobase Functionalized Polymers for Enhanced Interlayer Adhesion in 3D Printing

The 2014 NSF REU program which consisted of 10 undergraduates took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Katie Brown

University of Rhode Island

Behareh Behkam (Mechanical Engineering)

nanoBEAD: A Revolutionary Biohybrid Vehicle 

Caroline Chun

Sweet Briar College

Tijana Grove (Chemistry)

Synthesis of PEG-b-PCL Block Copolymers for a Theranostic System

Vincent Einck

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

Hydrogen Sulfide Delivery

Neil Forsythe

Pomona College

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Solution Rheology of Imidazolium Containing Polyesters for Electrospinning

Sapna Rao

University of Virginia

Amrinder Nain (Mechanical Engineering)

Single Cell Directionality on Nanofibers

Peyi Runsewe

University of Maryland

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Fabrication and Characterization of Quantum Dot-Incorporated Carboxymethyl Cellulose Acetate Butyrate Nanoparticles

David Ruohoniemi

University of Virginia

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Novel Photopolymers for use in Mask Projection Microstereolithography

Stephen Schmidt

Carroll College

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Human Hemoglobin onto Chitin and Cellulose Surfaces

Emily York

Niagara University

Kevin Edgar (Sustainbale Biomaterials)

Hydroboration of Cellulose Esters with 9-BBN

Richard Yu

Washington University in St. Louis

Chang Lu (Chemical Engineering)

Microfabricated Magnetic Patterns for Improving Microfluidic Immunomagnetic Separation

The 2013 NSF REU program, which consisted of 13 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School (Major)
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Sarah Callinan

Richard Stockton College (Biochemistry)

Tijana Grove (Chemistry)

Polymer Coated Mn2+ MOFs for Theranostic Applications

Kara Capasso

Richard Stockton College (Chemistry)

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Synthesis of Cellulose Acetate Propionate for Optical Testing

William Chiang

Virginia Tech (Biochemistry)

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Bio-inspired Histamine-Containing Elastomers

Travis DePriest

Virginia Tech (Physics)

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Enzymatic Degradation of Lichenan Layers on Regenerated Cellulose Surfaces

Kabir Dhada

Georgia Tech (Chemistry)

Amrinder Nain (Mechanical Engineering)

Cancer Cell Protrusion Dynamics On Nanofibers

Elizabeth Fontaine

Clemson University (Biomedical Engineering)

Chang Lu (Chemical Engineering)

Optimization of DNA Bisulfite Conversion for Microfluidic Chip Application

Heather Froggatt

Case Western Reserve University (Polymer Science)

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Polysaccharide-Polymer Nanoplexes for Wound Healing Applications

Matt Joseph

Roanoke College (Chemistry)

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Melt Processable Acrylonitrile/Methyl Acrylate (AN/MA) Statistical Copolymers via RAFT Polymerization

Josh Moore

Virginia Tech (Biology)

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Investigation of Novel Monomer Synthesis for Membrane Separations

Ashley Peralta

Hampton University (Chemistry)

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Acrylamide Phosphonate Monomers and Polymers

Chad Powell

Clemson University

Lou Madsen (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Evan Smith

Virginia Tech (Mechanical Engineering)

Behareh Behkam (Mechanical Engineering)

3T3 Mammalian Cell Chemotaxis on Nanoscaffolds in a Flow-Based Microfluidic Device

Zachary Weinrich

Case Western Reserve University (MACR)

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Structure-Property Relationships of Segmented Phosphonium Ionenes for Treating Genetic Diseases

The 2012 NSF REU program, which consisted of 16 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School (Major)
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Frances Ampah

Virginia Tech (Psychology/Pre-med)

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Functionalization of Celulose Nanocrystals with FITC-Labeled GRGDS Peptide for Cancer Targeting

Omkar Betageri

University of Connecticut (Biomedical Engineering)

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Evaluation of the Bioactivity and Biocompatibility of Cellulose Nanocrystals for Bone Tissue Engineering

Monica Boatwright

Alabama-Huntsville (Chemical Engineering)

Louis Madsen (Chemistry)

Study of Polymer Beacons for DNA Delivery by MRI

Stacey Chin

Carnegie Mellon (Chemistry)

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Anionic Copolymers with Anti-HIV Microbicide Activity

Abyssina Davis

St. Paul's College

Richard Turner and Rich Gandour (Chemistry)

Polymers for Anti-HIV Microbicides

Travis DePriest

Virginia Tech (Physics)

Jean Heremans and Victoria Soghomonian (Physics)

Adsorption of Mixed Linkage Glucans onto Regenerated Cellulose Surfaces

Charles Easterling

University of Southern Mississippi (Polymer Science)

Tijana Grove (Chemistry)

Manganese-Organic Frameworks Embedded in Hydrogels and Microspheres

Matt Joseph

Roanoke College (Chemistry)

James McGrath and Sue Mecham (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Melt Processable Poly(Acrylonitrile-co- Methyl Acrylate) Copolymers

Danielle Kellogg

St. John Fisher College (Chemistry/Biochemistry)

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Diblock Polymer Zwitterions Containing Phosphonate Anions

Jennifer Ludwig

University of Massachusetts-Amherst (Chemistry/Biochemistry)

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Polyurethane Electrolytes Based on Phosphonium Cations and their Polyplexes with Nucleic Acids

Michelle Mahoney

Virginia Tech (Biochemistry)

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Amphiphilic Pullulan Ethers as Biocompatible Micelles

Joshua Moore

St. Paul's College (Biology)

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Synthesis of Acetylated Alginates

Trevor Parker

Virginia Tech (Chemistry)

Rich Gandour (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Chemical Linkers for Bionanoconstructs

Earl Ritchie

Clemson University (Chemistry)

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Cellulose ω-Carboxyalkanoates for the Oral Delivery of Crystalline Drugs

Julie Robinson

Clemson University (Chemical Engineering)

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Properties of Novel Amphiphilic Copolymers in Water

Destinii Smith

Shaw University (Biology)

Judy Riffle and Sue Mecham (Chemistry)

Analysis of Block Copolymers by SEC with Multiple Detectors

The 2011 NSF REU program, which consisted of 15 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. 

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Kristina Caldwell

St. Paul's College

Rich Gandour (Chemistry)

Block Copolymers for Anti-HIV Microbicides

Jennifer Carter

St. Paul's College

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Enhanced ater Solubility and Bioavailability of HIV Drugs

Benjamin Cherniawski

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Synthesis of Cellulose Esters with Long Sidechains

Kerry DeMella

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Forming Polyelectrolute Nanoparticles: Tailoring Size ad Shape for Efficient Gene

Emma Edgar

Wake Forest University

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Xyloglucan onto Sulfated Cellulose Nanocrystals Films

Anthony Gai

Alfred University

Jean Heremans and Victoria Soghomonian (Physics)

Fabrication and Behavior of Bismuth Hall Effect Bopsensors

Gregory Hartmann

Virginia Tech

Abby Whittingon (Materials Science and Engineering)

Mineralization of Polymer Scaffolds by Calcium Phosphates

Christopher Houser

Bloomsburg University

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Enzymatic Surface Deacetylation of Chitin Nanocrystals

Lindsay Johnson

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Poly(ammoniuim Bisphosphonate-g-ethylene oxide) Copolymers for Biomedical Applications

Lindsay Matolyak

Indiana University of PA

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Alternating Copolymers with Precisely Placed Ionic Groups and Their Antiviral Properties

Nathan Mitchell

Emory & Henry College

Nammalway Sriranganthan (Biomedial Science and Pathology)

No Abstract

Trevor Parker

Virginia Tech

Rich Gandour (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Amphiphilic Polyethylene oxide)-lipid Anchors for Assembling Coated Nanoparticles

Destinii Smith

Shaw University

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Gold-Coated Cellulose Nanocrystals for Potential Bioimaging Applications

Andrea Stadther

Spring Hill College

Nammalway Sriranganthan (Biomedical Science and Pathology)

In Vitro Release of Rifampicin-Loaded Carboxymethylcellylose Acetate Butrate

Irene Turner

St. Paul's College

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Amphiphilic Triblock Copolyethers for Conjugation to Therapeutic Proteins

The 2010 NSF REU program, which consisted of 14 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Mauve Budi

Clemson University

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Select Hemicelluloses to a Model Cellulose Surface

Jennifer Carter

St. Paul's College

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterizatio of New Aromativ Polymer Materials for Gas Separation Membranes

Joe Dennis

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Design of Bioinspired Imidazolium-containing Copolyesters for Drug Delivery Applications

Lindsay Johnson

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Block Ionomer Complexes Carrying Multifunctional Cationicaminoglycosides

Stephanie Konecke

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Water Solubility of Flabonoids by Solid Dispersion in Cellulose Derivatives

Jacob Lindsay

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials) and Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Improved Bioavailability of Clarithromycin Through Nanopatricle Formation with Carboxymethyl Cellulose Acetate Vutyrate Using a Multi-Inlet Vortex Mixer

Julia Logsdail

Florida Institute of Technology

Abby Morgan (Materials Science and Engineering)

Fabrication and Characterization of Conjugated Phenolic Acids to Celatin Microspheres and Thin Films for Peroxynitrite Scavenging

Katherine MaGruder

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long and Robert Moore (Chemistry)

Analyzing the Binding Interactions between Varying Percents of Alkylation and Substitutimn of Poly(1-vinylimidazole) and Heparin for Use in Gene Therapy

Tekesha Rhodes

St. Paul's College

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of New Aromatic Polymer Materials for Gas Separation Membranes

Andrew Shaver

Case Western Reserve University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Novel Membranes for Water Purification

Anthony Sigillito

University of Dallas

Jean Heremans (Physics)

The Design and Fabrication of Bismuth hall Effect Biosensors

Maggie Tillar

University of Virginia

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Cullular Uptake of Fluorescently-Labeled-Folate Targeted Cellulose Nanocrystals

Irene Turner

St. Paul's College

Abby Morgan(Materials Science and Engineering)

Bisphosphonated Hydroxyethylchitosan Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration

C. van Duyn

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Efficacy of Polymeric Nanoplexes Encapsulating Gentamicin for Elmination of Intercellular Pathogens in Vitro

The 2009 NSF REU program, which consisted of 23 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Sarah Bruner

Virginia Tech

Robert Moore (Chemistry)

Analyzing the Formation of Nanoscale Complexes of DNA and Polyimidazoles for use in Gene Transfection

Alfred Chen

Oklahoma Baptist University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Functionalization of Heterobifunctional Polyethers for the Stabilization of Magnetite

Heejun Choi

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption Studies of Phospholipids onto Cellulose and other Surfaces

Theresa Cutler

Virginia Tech

Theresa Reineke (Chemistry)

Synthesis of (+) and (-) Tartrate-based Linear and Branched Poly(glycoamidoamine)s for Structure and Property Relationship Studies

Joseph Dennis

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis of n-Butyl Acrylate and 1-Vinylimidazole-containing Copolymers

Meagan Douple

Virginia Tech

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Design and Synthesis of Drug-Polymer Complexes for Drug Delivery

Owen Gallagher

University of Virginia

Andrea Dietrich (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Modeling Listeria monocytogenes Contamination in Ready-To-Eat Deli Meats to Establish Risk Assessment Metrics

Nzinga Geter

University of South Carolina Upstate

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Polymer-Antibiotic Nanoplexes as Delivery Vehicles to Intracellular Bacteria

Alec Good

The College of New Jersey

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Investigating Polyplex Stability and Thermodynamics for Gene Delivery using Gel Electrophoresis

Stefan Green

New River Community College

Victoria Soghomonian and Jean Heremans (Physics)

Design of Magnetic Field Flux Concentrator for an AC Magnetic Field-Triggered Drug Delivery Application

Liz Huh

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Enzymatic Degradation of Regenerated Cellulose Cinnamate with Varying Degrees of Cinnamate Substitution

Barbara Lawson

Virginia Tech

Abby Morgan (Materials Science and Engineering)

A New Delivery System for Mitomycin C

Julia Logsdail

Florida Institute of Technology

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Bis-Maleimide with a Degradable pH Sensitive Acetal Linkage for Drug Delivery Systems

Saemin Oh

Virginia Tech

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Cellulose Nanocrystals for Targeted Drug Delivery Applications

Carlton "Chip" Parker

Bethune-Cookman University

Victoria Soghomonian and Jean Heremans (Physics)

Design of an AC Magnetic Field Assembly for Localized and On-demand Drug Delivery Through Interaction of an AC Magnetic Field and Its Coupling to Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles

Nipon Pothayee

Naresuan University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Doxycycline-bile Acid Salt Complexes

Elvin Santiago

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Characterization of Random and Block Copolymers for Use in Reverse Osmosis Applications

Anthony Sigillito

University of Dallas

Victoria Soghomonian and Jean Heremans (Physics)

Design, Fabrication, and Testing of Bismuth Hall Biosensors Capable of Detecting Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles

Timothy Smiley

University of Missouri Science and Technology

Andrea Dietrich (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Application of GC/MS and DSC for Characterization of New and Extracted Polyethylene Pipe

Courtney Tate

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Unconventional Esterification of Cellulose in Different Homogeneous Media

Pedrolando Valdez

Virginia Tech

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Determination of Hydrophobic interactions between Polymer-magnetite Complexes

Christine VanDuyn

Virginia Tech

Nammalwar Sriranganathan (Veterinary Medicine)

Elimination of Intracellular Listeria Monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimuriam from J774A.1 Mouse Macrophage Cells by Polymeric Nanoplexes Encapsulating Gentamicin

Ezra Yohannes

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Polysaccharides on Pullulan Model Surfaces

The 2008 NSF REU program, which consisted of 30 undergraduates in three separate research thrusts, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Field-Reponsive Materials REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

John Bowen

Virginia Tech

Mark Paul (Mechanical Engineering)

Exploring Chaos using Numerical Simulations of Simple Models

Heejun Choi

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Adsorption of Phospholipid Bilayers onto Pullulan-modified Cellulose Surfaces

Kelly Daly

Virginia Tech

Paul Deck (Chemistry)

Progress Toward a Highly Fluorinated, Sulfonated Diels-Alder Polyphenylene for Use as a Proton Exchange Membrane in Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Lauren Force

King's College

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Dumbbell-Shaped Polysulfones with Hyperbranched Ionic End Groups

Joseph Gilpin

University of Dallas

Victoria Soghomonian and Jean Heremans (Physics)

Influence of Magnetic Molecules on Electron Spin Scattering in InAs

Damian Illings

Colorado School of Mines

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Cellulose Nanocrystals for Use in Targeted Drug Delivery Systems

Jacquelyn McRae

Norfolk State University

Robert Moore (Chemistry)

Manipulation of the Nanostructure of an Ionic Polymer Metal Composite via Post-Polymerization Sulfonation of the Ionomer Membrane

Nicholas Moon

Case Western Reserve University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Class of PEG Ionenes with Varying PEG Length

Annaria Nardone

Washington and Lee University

Randy Heflin (Physics)

Electronic Devices by Ionic Self-assembled Multilayers (ISAMS)

Christian Reinholz

Clemson University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Alexander Rich

Virginia Tech

Felicia Etzkorn (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of a Rhodamine Labeled Peptide for the Assay of Pin1 Inhibitors

Akia Scruggs

Norfolk State University

Abby Morgan (Materials Science and Engineering)

Gelatin and Albumin Microspheres for Drug Delivery in Bone Regeneration

Holly Sewell

University of Colorado

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Formation of Magnetite Clusters using a Confined Impinging Jet Mixer
Materials and Processes for PEM Fuel Cells REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Kyle Bryson

Pennsylvania State University

Robert Moore (Chemistry)

A Novel Polystyrene Derivative Designed for PEMFCs

Geoffrey Campbell

Michigan Technological University

Donald Baird (Chemical Engineering)

Effects of Solvent-casting Conditions on the Final Properties of Disulfonated Poly(arylene ether sulfone) Copolymer Films for Fuel Cell Proton Exchange Membranes

Timothy Garvey

University of Southern Mississippi

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Study of a Novel Poly(arylene ether benzonitrile) and Disulfonated Poly(arylene ether sulfone) Multiblock Copolymer Membrane

Timothy Gray

Virginia Tech

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Development of a Novel Test Fixture to Quantify Mechanically Induced Electrical Shorting of Proton Exchange Membrane for Fuel Cell Applications

Christopher Horvath

Syracuse University

Nakhiah Goulbourne (Mechanical Engineering)

Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites as Residual Stress and Humidity Sensors for PEM Fuel Cells

Craig Keys

Virginia Tech

Michael Ellis (Mechanical Engineering) and Chris Cornelius (Chemical Engineering)

Conductivity of Electrolyte Membranes Within Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Joshua Kezele

Lehigh University

Michael von Spakovsky (Mechanical Engineering)

Development and Testing of Micro-tubular Fuel Cells for United States Air Force Micro-Aerial Vehicles

Erin Littleton

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Solvent Mass Uptake Studies of Biphenyl Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Copolymer Thin Films via Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation Monitoring

Emily Mieritz

Colorado School of Mines

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Blister Testing: Correlating Pressure and Displacement Data to Determine Biaxial Stress States on Gore® 57 Membrane for Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Katherine Radavich

University of Wisconsni

Ishwar Puri (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Flame Synthesized Carbon Nanostructures as Anodes in Microbial Fuel Cells

Duane Rollins

Virginia Tech

Robert West (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Characterization of the Membrane Material Found in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)

Jessica Wright

Virginia Tech

Michael Ellis (Mechanical Engineering)

Coefficient of Hygral Expansion for NR-211
Macromolecular Interface with the Life Sciences IGERT REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Jenny Bey

Virginia Tech

Jim Tanko (Chemistry)

Kinetic Isopope Effect Studies of para-Substituted-N, Ndimethylanilines

Dong-Chun Choi

Virginia Tech

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Ink‐jet Printed Cellulose Nanocrystal Substrates for Cell Micropatterning

Paul Kim

Virginia Tech

Kevin Zhou (Food Science and Technology)

Antiproliferative Effect of Various Fruits against Human Breast Cancer Cell Grown in Vitro

Allison Pagano

Virginia Tech

Webster Santos (Chemistry)

Cloning of Alpha-synuclein and Firefly Luciferase Fusion Constructs

Christine Sargent

Virginia Tech

Andrea Dietrich (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Production of Metallic Flavor Compounds by Oxidation of Oral Cell Membrane Fatty Acids and its Prevention by Antioxidants and Chelating Agents

The 2007 NSF REU program which consisted of 30 undergraduates in four separate research thrusts took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Field-Reponsive Materials REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Michael Allen

DeSales University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Polysulfobetaines

Clairette Angeli

University of Virginia

Harry Dorn (Chemistry)

Purification of Trimetallic Nitride Template Endohedral Metallofullerenes by Chemical Reaction of Eutectic 9 methylanthracene with Fullerenes

Peter Bailey

University of South Carolina Upstate

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Chelidamic Acid: a Key Component of Cryptand Hosts for Self-Assembly of Supramolecular Polymers

Ryan Cronshaw

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

The Esterification of Carboxymethyl Cellulose and Its Applications as a Drug Delivery Vehicle

Samantha Farris

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Air/Water Interface Study of Poly(ethylene glycol) Monostearate Esters and Magnetic Nanoparticles Stabilized with PEG Surfactants

Jeremy Jones

Virginia Tech

Felicia Etzkorn (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Collagen Mimic

Alexander Jordan

Virginia Tech

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Confined Impingement Jet Mixing to Obtain Controlled Size Distributions of Polymer-Stabilized β-Carotene Nanoparticles

Arielle McNeill

University of South Carolina Upstate

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Solution Properties of Poly(Sodium Styrene Sulfonate- Alt-Sodium-N(4-Sulfophenyl) Maleimide)

Christian Reinholz

Clemson University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Stability Studies of Magnetite Nanoparticles

Margarita Smith

Virginia Tech

Mark Paul (Mechanical Engineering)

Quantifying the Dynamics of Thermoelastically Driven Nanoscale Beams in Fluid
Materials and Processes for PEM Fuel Cells REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Haley Carney

Georgia Tech

Michael Ellis (Mechanical Engineering)

Fabrication and Evaluation of Gas Diffusion Media with Low In-Plane Resistance

Thomas Cochell

Colorado School of Mines

Ishwar Puri (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Impact of Carbon-Nanostructured Anodes on Escherichia coli Biofilm Formation and Viability for use in Microbial Fuel Cells

Justin Curd

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Phosphonium Ionenes

James DeJesus

Kansas State University

Michael von Spakovsky (Mechanical Engineering)

Enhancing the Conduction Layer Performance for the Cathode and Anode of Micro-tubular Fuel Cells for Micro Air Vehicle

Stuart Dunn

Virginia Tech

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Ion-containing, Hydrocarbon-based Multiblock Copolymers as Novel Proton Exchange Membranes

Timothy Gray

Virginia Tech

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Stress Relaxation Fixture, A Method For Testing Thin Film Specimens

Jacob Grohs

Virginia Tech

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Evaluating the Time and Temperature Dependent Biaxial Strength of Gore® 57 Using a Pressure Loaded Blister Test

Margarite Parker

University of Colorado

Donald Baird (Chemical Engineering)

The Effect of Graphite Type on Bipolar Plate Composites for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

Beth Tucker

Roanoke College

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Characterization of Swelling Behavior in Thin Films of Biphenyl Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Copolymers
Macromolecular Science and Infrastructure Engineering IGERT REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Maggie Ashworth

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Biodegradable Polymer Nanospheres

Heather Masters

Virginia Tech

Kevin Edgar (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Modification of Carboxymethylcellulose and its Properties Related to Drug Delivery

Reza Montazami

Virginia Tech

Randy Heflin (Physics)

Electrochromic Properties of ISAM device Based on PANI and PASA

Cullen O'Connor

The College of New Jersey

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fatigue Damage of E-Glass/Vinyl-Ester Composites Under Fully Reversed Loading

Timothy Vadala

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Well Defined Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticles
Macromolecular Interface with the Life Sciences IGERT REU
Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Shaheen Ahmad

Virginia Tech

Kevin Zhou (Food Science and Technology)

Antioxidant Capacity and Components of Virginia Grapes

Jena Highkin

Virginia Tech

Ed Smith (Animal and Poultry Sciences)

Molecular and Biochemical Analysis of Oxidative Stress in Toxin- Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)

Rory Polera

University of Illinois

Andrea Dietrich (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Formation and Sorption of Trihalomethanes in Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyethylene Pipes Used in Drinking Water Distribution Systems

Carolyn Robinson

Clark Atlanta University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Poly(ethylene glycol) – Glutathione Conjugates for Biomedical Applications

Amanda Shea

Virginia Tech

Susan Duncan (Food Science and Technology)

Oxidation of Algae Oil, Flax Oil, and Milk fat and the Effect of Chitosan and Lipoic Acid

Stephanie Zimmeck

Virginia Tech

Jim Tanko (Chemistry)

Solvent Effects on the Kinetics of the Hydroxyl Radical Generated from N-hydroxypyridine-2(1H)-thione

 

The 2006 NSF REU program, which consisted of 38 undergraduates in four separate research thrusts, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. Research abstracts are available here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Wade Alexander

West Virginia University

Joe Marcy (Food Science and Technology)

Complexation of α-Tocopherol and Quercetin with α-, β-, and γ-Cyclodextrins

Clairette Angeli

University of Virginia

Harry Dorn (Chemistry)

A Support Free Method of Isolating Trimetallic Nitride Endohedralmetallofullerenes

Eric Armstrong

Vanderbilt University

Richard Turner (Chemistry)

Simple Fractionation of Hyperbranched Polymers

Maggie Ashworth

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetic Polylactide Nanospheres

Margaux Baker

University of Michigan

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Hydrogen Bonding Polymers and Blends with Phosphonium Salts

Sara Bush

University of North Dakota

Ed Smith (Animal and Poultry Sciences)

The Influence of Oxidative Stress on Immune Response in Chickens

Corbin Clawson

Virginia Tech

Mark Paul (Mechanical Engineering)

Modeling of Ionomer Active Fluid Mixer

Mary Clay

Austin Peay State University

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Preparation of Cellulose Nanocrystal Solid Films

Travis Conner

Virginia Tech

Donald Baird (Chemical Engineering)

The Development of Compression Moldable Laminate Bipolar Plates for Application in Fuel Cells

Jonathan Conyers

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Characterization of Optical Properties and Swelling Behavior in Thin Films of Biphenyl Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Copolymers

Daniel Drazenovich

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium-Xylan Adsorption Studies onto Model Surfaces via Surface Plasmon Resonance Spectroscopy

Stuart Dunn

Virginia Tech

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Chemical Composition and Sequence Length Effects on Proton Exchange Membrane Transport Properties

Eric Eberhardt

Radford University

Felicia Etzkorn (Chemistry)

Solid-Phase Synthesis of a Potential Pin1 Inhibitor

Ross Frey

Purdue University

Ishwar Puri (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Carbon Nanowire Based Biological Fuel Cell Anode Design with the Utilization of Nitrosomonas europaea

Nyssa Glenn

Virginia Tech

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Determination of MEA Material Properties using 3D Digital Image Correlation System

Michael Hamilton

Virginia Tech

Michael Ellis (Mechanical Engineering)

Comparison of Electrocatalysts and Membrane Materials (BPSH-35 and Nafion® 117) for Direct Ethanol Fuel Cells

Will Harkcom

Virginia Tech

David Bevan (Biochemistry)

Molecular Docking and Monoamine Oxidase B:A Computational Approach to Novel Inhibitor Discovery

Sarah Huffer

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Viscoelastic Properties of Poly(dimethylsiloxane) and Octaisobutyl-POSS Blends

Michael Hunt

Virginia Tech

David Clark (Materials Science and Engineering)

The Effect of Particle Size on Alumina – Fluorine Interactions during MEA Combustion in a Microwave Field

Julie Karceski

University of Iowa

Nakhiah Goulbourne (Mechanical Engineering)

Characterization of Ionic Polymer Membranes for Application as a Heart Sensor

Daniel Kraft

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Randy Heflin (Physics)

Organic Solar Cells Using Ionic Self Assembled Multilayers

Justin Lemkul

Virginia Tech

Korinn Saker (Veterinary Medicine)

Quantitation of Oxidative DNA Damage of Peripheral White Blood Cells and Cells Grown in Culture

Marc Lorenzi

Virginia Tech

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

The Synthesis of Silver Nanocubes for Surface Plasmon Effects

Leslie Mercado

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Michael von Spakovsky (Mechanical Engineering)

Reconstruction of 3D Porous Microstructure of the Cathode Catalyst Layer of a PEM Fuel Cell

Brian Mohns

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Supramolecular Structures Containing a Synergy of Hydrogen Bonding and Photocrosslinkable Sites

Reza Montazami

Virginia Tech

Randy Heflin (Physics)

Electrochromic Properties of Thin Conductive Poly (aniline 2-sulfonic) acid (PASA) Films, Formed by Ionically Self- Assembled Monolayers (ISAM) Technique

Regina Mosley

Clark Atlanta University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Analysis of Dissolved Oxygen

Kimberly Negrin

Slippery Rock University

Craig Thatcher (Veterinary Medicine)

Prevalence of Obesity and Its Relationships to Hyperinsulinemia and Oxidative Stress/Inflammation in Horses

Alexander Nichols

Austin College

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Electrospinning of Associating Small Molecules

Julia Northrop

Illinois Institute of Technology

Nakhiah Goulbourne (Mechanical Engineering)

Smart Skin for Morphing Wings

Joseph O'Connor

The College of New Jersey

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

R-Ratio Effects on Damage in Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites

Ryder Pingry

Lafayette College

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Frequency Effects on Fatigue Life for Vinyl-Ester/E-Glass Structural Composites

Paul Rodgers

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Structural Fuel Cell Design Using Non-Metallic Substances

Jose Sanchez

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Effect of Environmental Conditions on Performance of Adhesive Joints for Infrastructure Applications

Dana Scott

Pennsylvania State University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Creep-Induced Leakage in Proton Exchange Membranes

William Soublo

Virginia Tech

Chip Frazier (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) of a Moisture Cure Polyurethane Adhesive

Timothy Vadala

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Biocompatible Stabilizers to Tailor the Surface Properties of Magnetic Nanoparticles

Ryan Vetor

Valparaiso University

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Threading a Molecular Needle: Complexation Studies of Pseudorotaxanes

The 2005 NSF REU program, which consisted of 27 undergraduates in three separate research thrusts, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

William Alexander

Marshall University

Diego Troya (Chemistry)

Theoretical Study of the Effect of Chain Substituent Mass on Energy Transfer in Collisions of Ar with Model HDPE , PVDF, and PTFE

William (Joe) Allen

Jamestown College

David Bevan (Biochemistry)

Evaluating DOCK 5.2 for the Analysis of Monoamine Oxidase B and B-Glucosidases

Emily Anderson

University of North Carolina

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Stimuli Responsive Amphiphilic Tribloc Copolymer Brushes

Roberto Alvarado

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Combined Mechanism Durability Modeling and Validation for Composite Naval Structures

Daniel Armanios

University of Pittsburgh

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Developing a Technique to Characterize Residual Stress in Proton Exchange Membranes

Maggie Ashworth

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Toward Functional Magnetic Nanoparticles for Biotechnology

Erika Bechtold

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Examination of Tri-headed and Two-tailed Carbamate-linked Ampiphiles

Jessica Bradford

McDaniel College

Maren Roman (Sustainable Biomaterials)

Controlled Deposition of Cellulose Nanocrystals Using Ink-Jet Printing Technology

Anya Campbell-Hawthorn

Virginia Tech

Korinn Saker (Veterinary Medicine)

Oxidative Damage and Antioxidant Status in the Canine Diabetic and Non-diabetic Cataractous Lens

Alicia Castagna

Rensellaer Polytechnic Institute

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Characterization of Proton Exchange Membranes for Fuel Cells

Brian Clements

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Mechanical Property of Evaluation of Fire Retardant Resins

Jacqueline Evans

Virginia Tech

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Durability and Performance of Epoxy Bonded to Alumina upon Emersion in Aqueous Solutions

Jackeline Hamelius

Virginia Tech

Ulrika Egertsdotter (Forestry)

Genetic Regulation of Embryo Development in Pinus taeda

Ayaka Honda

University of Illinois

Susan Duncan (Food Science and Technology)

Deglycosylation of Flavonoids by Lactic Acid Fermentation in Air and Reduced Oxygen Atmospheres

Sarah Huffer

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

pH and Ion Effects on Trisilanolphenyl-POSS Stability

Yiccun (Peter) Jian

University of Texas

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

UV Curable Cationic Polyelectrolytes for Electrospun Antimicrobial Membranes

Illeaner Maldonado

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Flexural Response of Under and Over Reinforced Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Reinforced Concrete Beams

Julie Martin

Appalachian State University

Andrea Dietrich (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Stability of Ethyl-t-Butyl Either Leached from Polyethylene Pipes by Drinking Water

David May

Virginia Tech

Felicia Etzkorn (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Michael Meneses

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Structure-Mechanical Property Relations for Charred Composite Materials

Emmanuel Padilla

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Testing and Characterization of Polymer Sensors

Jennifer Quincy

Brigham Young University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fracture Resistance of Proton Exchange Membranes

Kelvin Santiago

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Proposed Concrete Filled Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFFRP) Tube Aging Study

Joycelyn Smith

Clark Atlanta University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

The Synthesis and Characterization of Linear Poly (D,L lactides) Containing Pendant “Complimentary Multiple Hydrogen Bonding Groups”

Michael Swift

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Investigation of Dewetting within Thin Polymer Bilayer Films

Tim Vadala

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Ian Winters

University of Tennessee

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Analysis of the Repeatability of Techniques Used to Measure the Stress Relaxation and Creep Compliance of Nafion Membrane

The 2004 NSF REU program, which consisted of 33 undergraduates in three separate research thrusts, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

John Boyd

University of South Carolina Upstate

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Poly(4-vinylphenoxyphthalonitrile-b-styrene) Cobalt Dispersion Stabilizers using Stable Free-Radical Processes

Jeff Carter

Virginia Tech

John Morris (Chemistry)

Reactivity Studies of Nano-Crystalline MgO Filaments with Dimethyl Methyl Phosphonate, a Chemical-Warfare-Agent Simulant

Christopher Cormier

Clarkson University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Evaluation of a Beam on Elastic Foundation Design Method for Acrylic Foam Tape Bonds

Tommy Coupar

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fabrication and Performance Testing of Monopolar Plates for Fuel Cell Operation

Daniel Crowther

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Star-Shaped Poly(d,l-lactides)s

Burcin Erenturk

KoC University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

The Kinetics of Morphology Development in Thermoplastic Polyurethanes

Joci Forkner

Virginia Tech

Craig Thatcher (Veterinary Medicine)

Nutritional Amelioration of Oxidative Stress Induced by Obesity and Acute Weight Loss

David Fulks

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Poly(dimethylsiloxane-b-2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) Copolymers as Potential Surfactants for the Formation of Silica-Cobalt Microspheres

John Hottle

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Blends of Amphiphilic Poly(dimethylsiloxane) and Non-Amphiphilic Octaisobutyl-POSS at the Air/Water Interface

Sarah Huffler

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

pH Effects on Trisilanolphenyl-POSS Stability

Phillip Huffstetler

University of South Carolina Upstate

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Polymer-Cobalt Complexes and Their Conversion to Functionalized Nanoparticles

Michael Ibele

University of North Carolina

Jim Tanko (Chemistry)

Solvent Effects on the Rate of Decomposition of Dialkyloxyamines

John Janczak

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)\

Fabrication and Performance Testing of Monopolar Plates for Fuel Cell Operation

Cathleen Jones

Austin College

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Amikacin Release from Electrospum Poly(d, l-lactide) Fibers

Steven Kyriakides

Virginia Tech

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Mechanical Behavior of Nafion ad Bpsh Membranes

Ozma Lane

Radford University

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Plasma Modified Polymer Electrolyte Membranes: Deposition of Platinum on Polysulfone Films for use in Fuel Cells

Julie Lim

Virginia Tech

Felicia Etzkorn (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of the Collagen Mimetic Polypeptide (Gly-ψ[(E)CH=C]-Pro-Hyp) and the Model Polypeptide (Gly-Pro-Pro)n

Casey MacQueen

Virginia Tech

Kim Forsten-Williams (Chemical Engineering)

Immunofluorescent Analysis of Interleukin-1 Effects on Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-2 Levels on Articular Chondrocyte Surfaces

Yanely Malave

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Durability and Variability  Offiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Concrete Reinforcing Bar

Jese Mangual

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Design and Testing of Adhesivesly Conded FRP Deck Joints

Kathryn McDonald

University of Idaho

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fatigue Variability of E-Glass/510-A-40 Laminates

Kariely Mejias

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Evaluation of the Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Reinforcing Bars for Concrete Through Field Testing

Matthew Moore

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Effect of Post Cure on Dow Chemical’s Derakane 470-300 Vinyl Ester Resin and Vetrotex E-Glass Composite Panels Fabricated by Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding

Hayriye Ozhalici

KoC University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Investigation of the Molecular Recognition Characteristics of Adenine Modified Silicon Surfaces

Emmanuel Padilla

University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Variations of Performance on Epoxy Used for Steel Coatings as a Function of Different Temperatured and Baking Times

Christopher Palmer

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis & Characterization of Novel Cationic Polymers Based on Phosphonium Salts

Emily Pfeiffer

Massaschusetts Institute of Technology

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Temperature-Dependent Thermal Fiffusivity of Glass/Vinyl Ester Composite

Rachelle Pinlac

Johns Hopkins University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Sulfonated Poly (arylene ether sulfone) Copolymers with Pendent Sulfonic Acid Groups

Todd Rickett

University of Louisville

Aaron Goldstein (Chemical Engineering)

Modifying pH of Biomimetic PAH/Heparin Films to Alter Cell Proliferation and Osteoblastic Differentiation

Amanda Rudisin

Virginia Tech

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Cationic Polyelectrolytes as Gene Transfer Agents:  Topological and Molecular Weight Effects on Polyplex Size

Benjamin Saylor

East Tennessee State University

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Slip-Link Monomers for Polyrotaxanes

Daniel Villarreal

Virginia Tech

Jack Lesko and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Compression Strength of E-Glass/Vinyl Ester Composites Under Isothermal Conditions

Jeffrey Wisard

Carson-Newman University

Susan Duncan (Food Science and Technology)

The Characterization and Comparison of Whey Protein Film Properties and Film Effectiveness in Preventing Rancidity in Roasted Peanuts

The 2003 NSF REU program, which consisted of 24 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Nathan Allison

Clemson University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Time and Temperature-Dependent Behavior of PLASTILOCK® 731SI

Megan Andrew

Duke University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis, characterization and Preliminary Biocompatibility Studies of Sulfonated (Poly Arylene Ether Sulfone) Copolymers – Acid and Salt Form

Natalie Arnett

Grambling State University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Properties of Sulfonated Polymer Blends:  Influence of Composition of Partially Fluorinated Sulfonated Copolymers on Surface and Membrane Behavior

Christopher Bashur

Lafayette College

Aaron Goldstein (Chemical Engineering)

Electrospun Poly(L-Lactic Acid) Interfaces for Bone Tissue Engineering

John Boyd

University of South Carolina Upstate

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Characterization of Novel Poly(ethylene-butylene)-Siloxane Sealaing Materials

Charles Budde

Case Western Reserve University

Ravi Saraf (Chemical Engineering)

Optical Properties of Gold Nanoparticle and Poly(allyamine Hydrochloride) Systems

Michael Christopher

Virginia Tech

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Determining the Mode I Adhesive Franture Energy of Dow Automative Low Energy Surface Adhesive

Rebecca Gillespie

Princeton University

Al Loos (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Effect of Maleic Anhydride Modified Polypropylene on the Mechanical Properties of Feather Fiber, Kraft Pulp, Polypropylene Composites

Jonathan Goff

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Investigation of Macromolecular-Magnetite Dispersions

Carmine Graniello

Virginia Tech

William Ducker (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Bradley Habenicht

Virginia Tech

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of trans-Dibenzo-24-Crown-8 Diester

John Hottle

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

XPS and Optical Microscopy Analyses of Polystyrene and Trisilanolphenyl-POSS Bilayer Films

Phillip Huffstetler

University of South Carolina Upstate

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

The Synthesis and Solution Properties of Poly(ethylene oxide)-b-Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)

Jillian Hurst

Mary Washington College

Kim Forsten-Williams (Chemical Engineering)

Surface Plasmon Resonance Studies Focused on Heparin-Protein Binding

Rebecca Huyck

Transylvania University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

An Investigation of Photo-Crosslinking in the Design of Tailored Macromolecules

Ozma Lane

Radford University

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Surface Composition Of Platinum-Coated Sulfonated Polysulfones For Use As Polymer Electrolyte Membranes In Fuel Cells Using Plasma Deposition

Nathan Post

Clarkson University

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fatigue Performance Variability of a Structural Composite for Calculating Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Parameters

Stephen Ros

Virginia Tech

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Determination of Moisture Content in Concrete

Roderick Seals

Radford University

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Preparation of Thin Films of Fluorinated Cellulose Derivatives Using the Langmuir-Blodgett Technique

Glen Smith

Winona State University

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Determination of the Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Hybrid, Composite Beams

Benjamin Vastine

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Surface Active POSS-co-n-butylmethacrylate Copolymers

Vernon Webb

Morgan State University

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Polymeric Composite Monopolar Plates For Fuel Cells

Ryan Weyers

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Network Formation on Magnetic Cobalt Nanoparticles using Poly(styrene-b-4-vinylphenoxyphthalonitrile) Copolymers

Kai Zuehlke

Virginia Tech

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Creep Response of a Glass/Vinyl Ester Composite Produced by Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding

The 2002 NSF REU program, which consisted of 21 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Gunnes Ekin Attila

KoC University

John Dillard (Chemistry)

An Investigation of Adhesion Between Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Membranes and Platinum-Carbon Catalyst

Joshua Bennett

Virginia Commonwealth University

Gary Wnek and James McGrath (Chemistry)

Proton Conductivity of Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether sulfone) Copolymer Proton Exchange Membranes at Elevated Temperatures (60-150°C)

Jason Gaudet

Clemson University

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly of Nanostructured Polymeric Second Order Nonlinear Optic Ultrathin Films

Jonathan Goff

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Controlled Size Macromolecular-Magnetite Complexes

Joshua Grohs

Virginia Tech

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Contrasting In-situ and Bulk Constitutive Properties of Adhesives

Melinda Hill

Bloomsburg University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Directly Copolymerized Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether sulfone)s for Fuel Cell Applications

John Hottle

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

POSS-Polymer Blends at the Air/Water Interface I: Blends of Amphiphilic PDMS and Amphiphilic Trisilanolisobutyl-POSS

Matthew Kindig

University of Virginia

Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Carbon-Phenolic and Glass/Vinyl-Ester Composites Under Combined Thermal and Mechancial Loading

Steven Moechnig

Winona State University

Al Loos (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Mechanical Properties of Glass/Feather Fiber Composites

Zainab Oyetunji

University of Maine

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Mechanism of Self-healing in Ethylene Ionomers

Robert Putt

Michigan Technological Institute

Michael von Spakovsky (Mechanical Engineering)

Modeling and Imaging of Transport Phenomena in the Catalyst Layer of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Charles Ronco

Virginia Tech

William Ducker (Chemistry)

No Abstract

Samuel Schoenberg

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Carin Roberts-Wollmann (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

Material Properties of GFRP Reinforcing Bars for Bridge Decks

Sara Stellfox

Valparaiso University

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Crown Ethers

Charles Sweat Jr.

Kentucky State University

Ravis Saraf (Chemical Engineering)

No Abstract

James Taylor Jr.

Salisbury University

Richard Weyers (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

The Influence of Concrete Pore Water on the Epoxy Coating of Reinforcing Steel

Stacy Trey

State University of New York at Oswego

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Self-Complementary Multiple Hydrogen-Bonded (SCMHB) Polymers

Benjamin Vastine

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Langmuir-Blodgett Film Formation of POSS-Derivatives

Vernon Webb

Morgan State University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Sulfonated Polysulfone Copolymers

Ryan Weyers

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether) Copolymers Containing Aromatic Nitriles

Brianne Williams

West Virginia University

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Measurement of the Interlamniar Stength of the 36″ Double Web Beam Flange

The 2001 NSF REU program, which consisted of 19 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Natalie Arnett

Grambling State University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

The Synthesis and Characterization of Post Sulfonated Poly (Arylene Ether Sulfone)s Utilizing Chlorosulfonic Acid and it’s Silyl Derivative

Michael Bluemle

Case Western Reserve University

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Chemical Modification Of Silicon And Silicon Carbide Surfaces Via Plasma Treatment

Kerry Campbell

Kansas State University

William Ducker (Chemistry)

Interactions between Cationic Surfactants and Poly(Ethylene Oxide) Measured by Surfactant-Selective Electrodes

Chin Ping Chng

Florida Institute of Technology

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis Of Bis(5-Carboxy-1,3-Phenylene)-14-Crown-4 And Its Polymerization with 4,4’-Oxybisaniline

Curtis Cleveland

Hampton University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Effect of Solvent Composition and Concentration on Aggregate Size in Polymer Dispersions for Fuel Cell Membrane Electrode Assembly

Kevin Doyle

Ohio University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Adhesion between Epoxy and Glass Measured by the Shaft Loaded Blister Test

Abisake Feleke

East Tennessee State University

Ravi Saraf (Chemical Engineering)

Immobilization and Hybridization of DNA on Polymer Surface

Josh Grohs

Virginia Tech

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Creep Rupture of Semi-Structural Pressure Sensitive Adhesives

Melinda Hill

Bloomsburg University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Zirconium Phosphate/Sulfonated Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Membranes for Elevated Temperature Fuel Cell Application

Derek Hoffman

Winona State University

Brian Love (Materials Science and Engineering)

Design of a New Light-based Settling Characterization Device

Rachael Hopp

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of  Poly(Arylene Ether Ketone) Random (Statistical) Copolymers Via Direct Polymerization: Candidates for New Proton Exchange Membranes

Holly Hudson

State University of New York at Oswego

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Surface Chemistry Effects on Thin Film Stability

Denise Johnson

Shaw University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

In-Parallel Synthetic Methodologies for Stable Free Radical Polymerization and Selective Sulfonation of Block CoPolymers

Sheryl Kane

Johns Hopkins University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Novel Methacrylate Copolymers: Photosensitive Adhesives and Hydrogels

Jennifer Leeson

West Virginia University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Design, Fabrication, and Testing of Membrane Electrode Assemblies Containing Novel Ion Containing Copolymers

Morgan Mager

Georgia Tech

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Effects of Silica Inclusions on Plasticization in Permselective Polyimide Membranes

Heather Morrison

James Madison University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)-b-poly (dimethylsiloxane) for use in Silicone Magnetic Fluids

Ana Maria Pinto

North Carolina State University

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Controlling Dewetting in Ultra-thin Films

Joe Polidan

Virginia Tech

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Probing Surface Effects in POSS Nanocomposites

The 2000 NSF REU program, which consisted of 15 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Melanie Bachemin

University of Southern Mississippi

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Investigation of Solvent Diffusion Studies for a Model Epoxy Adhesive

Victor Baranauskas

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Cresol Novolac Networks Containing Maleimide Reagents

Henry ("Junior") Burton Jr.

Morgan State University

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

An Investigation Into The Behavior Of Concrete-Filled FRP Tubes For Pile Foundations Under Axial Loading

Anita Carmichael

Virginia Tech

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Properties of Epoxy-Siloxane NetworksContaining Phosphine Oxides

Matthew Clarke

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

Alan Esker (Chemistry)

Controlling Dewetting in Ultra-thin Films

Zorana Dicic

Manhattan College

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Electric Field Tunable Materials for Thin Film Microwave Switching Devices

Robin Farmer

Virginia Tech

Herve Marand (Chemistry)

Initial Stages of Crystallization In Bisphenol-A Polycarbonate

Harry Johnson

Grambling State University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis of High Refractive Index Polyphosphonate Adhesives and Their Hydrolytic Stability

Brian Mather

University of New Mexico

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Chemical Modification and Oxidative Degradation Studies of Poly(1,3-Cyclohexadiene)

Zachary Miller

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Durability Studies of Room Temperature Curing Silicone Adhesives: Mode I and Mode II Testing

Denise Pauler

University of Texas

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of a Cryptand for Complexations with High Association Constants

Joseph Perry

California State University, Fresno

Brian Love (Materials Science and Engineering)

Effects of Changes in Aluminum Surface Morphology On Underwater Adhesion

Michael ("Shane") Thompson

North Carolina State University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetic Polydimethylsiloxane Fluids

Jeffrey Ward

University of California, Berkeley

Ravi Saraf (Chemical Engineering)

In-situ Sub-Micron Photo-Luminescent Particle Synthesis by Surface Modification

Stefan Williams

Pennsylvania State University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Bimaterial Curvature Measurements For Characterizing Coefficients Of Thermal And Diluent Expansion Of Structural Adhesives

The 1999 NSF-STC SURP program, which consisted of 21 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Stefan Andreev

Dartmouth College

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Humidity Effects on Mechanical Properties of Kaptone® E

Mary Biddy

Texas A&M University

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering)

Releasable Ionically Self-Assembled Monolayers

Jeffrey Briggs

Transylvania University

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of Norbornene and Maleic Anhydride Alternating Copolymers

Jeffrey Capadona

St. Joseph's College

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Adhesive Bonding and Durability of Plasma Sprayed Aluminum Adherends

Robin Farmer

Virginia Tech

Hervé Marand (Chemistry)

Influence of Structural Constraints on the Crystallization and Melting Behavior of Poly(arylene ether ether ketone)

Peter Hess

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FPR) Bridge Design:  A Connection Solution for Prefabricated Cellular Bridge Decks and Straingers

Casey Hudelson

Michigan State University

Ravi Saraf (Chemical Engineering)

Electrical Properties of Metal-Filled Composites

Kyle Jadin

Michigan Technological University

Garth Wilkes (Chemical Engineering)

Effect of Prestrain on the Crystalline Morphology of a Semicrystalline Copolyester

Gilbert Min

Carnegie Mellon University

William Ducker (Chemistry)

Competitive Adsorption Between a Cationic Polyelectrolyte and a Cationic Surfactant onto Negatively Charged Silica

Katharine Nelson

Mount Holyoke College

Ron Kander (Materials Science and Engineering)

Mechanical Milling and Alloying of High Performance Polymers

Jeremy Pasatta

Rochester Institute of TEchnology

Timothy Long (Chemistry)

Characterization of Liquid Crystalline Polyester Morphology

Nathan Reynolds

Binghamton University

Paul Deck (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Perfluoroarylene-Cyclopentadiene Alternating Copolymers

Grace Smalley

Canisius College

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether phosphine oxide)s for Proton Exchange Membrane/Fuel Cell Applications

Christopher Smith

University of Florida

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Measurement of Residual Stresses and Thermal Expension in Adhesive Bonds

Jeanette Stewart

Clark Atlanta University

N/A

No Abstract

Charles Stout

University of Memphis

K.L. Reifsnider (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Mechanical Property Analysis and Predicition of Cord-Rubber Composites

Mark Stoykovich

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Al Loos (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Cure Schedule Effects on the Glass Transition of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Pet-ultem Composites

Allison Suggs

Virginia Tech

Brian Love (Materials Science and Engineering)

Application of Photopolymerized Resins in Artifical Hip Replacements

Karen Switek

Valparaiso University

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

An Effecient New Cryptand Host for Supermolecular Chemistry

Kwee Yan Teh

Purdue University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Investigation of Thermal Ratchetting Effect in Conductive Adhesive Joints

Michael Thompson

North Carolina State University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

A Latent Initiator for Phenolic/Epoxy Composites

The 1998 NSF-STC SURP program, which consisted of 20 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Kristine Bergeron

Johns Hopkins University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Catalysis Effects on the Kinetics of Novolac Curred with Epoxy Resin

Kimberly Berkowski

University of Detroit Mercy

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Phase Diagram of Epoxy Resin Modified with Poly(phosphine Oxide -co-sulone sulfide)

Brian Boggess

University of Virginia

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Developmenht of Dynamic Wedge Test for the Study of Double-Cantilever Beam Specimens: Initial Study of the Failure of Poloyimide Adhesives Subjected to Impact Loading

Sianny Christanti

University of Wisconsin

Richey Davis (Chemical Engineering) and Scott Case (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

The Effects of Silane Coupling Agents on the Mechanical Performance of Alumina-silica Ceramic Fiber Reinforced Vinyl Ester Composites

Ravi Desai

Lehigh University

Hervé Marand (Chemistry)

Secondary Crystallization Kinetics of Poly(ether ether ketone)

Deanna Gomochak

Saint Mary's College

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Applying Controlled/”Living” Radical Polymerization to Surface Modification of Silica Gel

Michael Hickner

Michigan Technological University

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Poly(arylene ether phosphine oxide)s via Melt Polymerization

Rebecca Jelen

Clemson University

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Polyurethane Interphase Mateials for Carbon Fiber/Vinyl Ester Composites

Chad Johnson

Hampton University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

The Effect of Surfactant on the Moisture Optake Properties of Glass-Bead Filled Epoxies

Eric Jones

Case Western Reserve University

William Ducker (Chemistry)

Influence of Adsorbed Polymers on Inter-Particle Forces in Silica Colloids

Juliani

Uiversity of Oklahoma

Ron Kander (Materials Science and Engineering)

Investigation of Ophthalmic Lends Scratch Resistance

John Jungk

Washington State University

Al Loos (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Moisture Exposure Effects on Carbon Fiber-Reinforced PhenylEthynyl-Terminated Ultem™ Composites

Melissa Morrell

Swarthmore College

Jack Lesko (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Correlation of Ctack Density and Residual Strength and Stiffness of Saturated Vinyl Ester E-Glass Composite

Sherine Obare

West Virginia State College

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Investigation and Optimization of Plasma Pretreatment and Polymerization on Ti-6Al-4V for Enhanced Bond Performance

Nathan Reynolds

Binghamton University

Paul Deck (Chemistry)

Electronic Effects of Ancillary Ligand Aryl Substituents on the Ethylene Polymerization Activity of Group 4 Metallocene Catalysts

Ellen Scheuer

Carthage College

William Ducker (Chemistry)

Polystyrene Spheres as a Model of Two-Dimensional Non-Equilibrium Phase Transitions

Lu Shan

Lipscomb University

Ken Reifsnider (Chemical Engineering)

Influence of Polymer Network Structure on Mechanical Response

Allison Suggs

Virginia Tech

Brian Love (Materials Science and Engineering)

The Effect of Surfactant on Water Sorption and Viscoelastic Behavior of Waterborne Latex Epoxy Resins

Grant Vogl

Virginia Tech

Michael Hyer (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Response of Elliptial Composite Cylinders to Temperature Changes

Stefan Williams

Pennsylvania State University

James McGrath (Chemistry) and Garth Wilkes (Chemical Engineering)

Thermal Stability, Crystallization, and Morphology of a New Semicrystalline Polyimide Based on 1,3-BIS (4-Aminophenoxy) Benzene and 3,3′,4,4′-Benzophenonetetracarboxylic Dianhydride

The 1997 NSF-STC SURP program, which consisted of 18 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
School
Faculty Mentor (Department)
Abstract Title

Octavia Brauner

North Carolina State University

Ken Reifsnider (Chemical Engineering)

Ceramic Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

Jonathan Busick

North Carolina State University

Alex Aning (Materials Science and Engineering)

Mechanically Alloyed Graphite Reinforced Nylon Matrix Composites

Christopher Carrier

University of Virginia

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Experimental Determination of an Initiation Criterion for Fatigue Cracking in Adhesive Bonds

Michael Craven

Virginia Tech

N/A

No Abstract

Scott Hebner

Michigan State University

N/A

No Abstract

Douglas Hickman

Clark Atlanta University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Evaluation of Amorphous Polysters for Potential Use as Polycyanurate Tougheners

Josh Jackson

Virginia Tech

Brian Love (Materials Science and Engineering)

Effects on Environmental Exposure on Solvent and Water-Based Epoxy Systems

LaShanda James

Clark Atlanta University

Thomas Ward (Chemistry)

Characterization of Waterborne Epoxy Resin Using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Atomic Force Microscopy

David Jungk

Washington State University

David Dillard (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

An Investigation of Physical Aging Above the Glass Transition in Poly(ether ether ketone) Using Creep Measurements

Jennifer Montgomery

Mary Washington College

N/A

No Abstract

Jeremy Morin

University of Connecticut

Al Loos (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics)

Peek/Carbon Fiber Composites:  An Evaluation of Particle Size and Processing Method on Final Composite Properties

Scott Nutt

North Carolina State University

Hervé Marand (Chemistry)

Evolution of the Low Endotherm and Crystallinity During Secondary Crystallization of Semi-Flexible Chain Polymers

Michael Podraza

South Dakota School of Mines

Paul Deck (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Ferrocene Dimers Linked by Fluoroarenes

Kevin Sheran

University of North Carolina

James McGrath (Chemistry)

Synthesis and Characterization of p-Phenylenediamine Based Poly(ether imide) Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Systems

Edward Stancik

University of Illinois

Garth Wilkes (Chemical Engineering)

TPER-BPDA Semicrystalline Polyimide Structural Adhesive: 1 Surability Studies of lap Shear Adhesive Bonds; 2. Morphological Studies

Jason Vogel

University of Texas

Harry Gibson (Chemistry)

Synthesis of Polyether Dendrimers via a Divergent Route

David Williams

Fairmont State College

John Dillard (Chemistry)

Surgace Preparation and Bond Durability of Ti-6Al-4V with a Polyimide Adhesive

Kimberly Wilson

University of Kansas

Judy Riffle (Chemistry)

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Vinyl Ester Matrix Composites

The 1996 NSF-STC SURP program, which consisted of 30 undergraduates, took place at Virginia Tech. Students, affiliations, and faculty sponsors are listed below. The abstract from the final written report may be seen by clicking here.

Name
Abstract Title

Shana Adams

The Synthesis and Characterization of Poly(thioarylene sulfone) and Poly(thioarylene Phosphine odixe) Polymeric Materials

George Blaha

Ceramic Reinforced Nylon Composites Prepared by Mechnical Alloying

Chris Carrier

Hydrothermal Aging of Vinyl ester Composites

Maharshi Chauhan

Recycling of TLCP Reinformaced Polypropylene

Lisa Cook

The Effects of Long Term Annealing on Gas Sorption in Semicrystalline Polymers

Michael Craven

The Effects of Fiber-sizing and Moisture on the Bulk Mechanical properties of Thermoplastic Composite Systems

Michelle Crowell

Vinyl Acetate Emulsion Polymers for Wood Adhesives

April Frazier

Surface Treatment of Ti-6Al-4V: Plasma-Sprayed Polyimide Coatings. Durability of Adhesively Bonded Samples

Jerone Gagliano

Post Failure analysis of Composites and Adhesives

Anna Gardberg

Use of Dynamic DSC to Study Glass Transitions in Polyurethanes

Linda Harris

Polyurethane Interphase Materials for Carbon Fiber/Vinyl Ester Composites

LaShanda James

Modified Relaxation Tie Distributions via Gradient Cured Toughened Thermosets

Elsa Laughlin

Applications of Java and the World Wide Web:  A Three-Simensional Graphing Tutorial

Shefali Malhotra

Biotribology and Cartilage Wear

Michael Mathews

A Development of a Consolidation Cycle for Poly(phenylene sulfide) Composites

Jennifer McMurray

Influence of Material Orthotrophy and Cross Sectional Geometry on the Respose of Elliptical Cylinders

Jeremy Monat

Some Selected Features of the Physical Aging Process for Glassy Polymers

John Montgomery

Effect of Mode Toughtness Mix on the Fracture of Ti-6Al-4V/FM-5X Bonds

Brian Moser

Computer Modeling of the Mechanical Response of Composite Sturctural Beams in the Tom’s Creek Bridge

Clarence Murray

Effect of Topological Constraints on the Thermal Behavior of Polymers

Mical Pallack

Phenylethynyl Terminated Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Copolymers

Kim Pham

Effect of Conditioning on Epoxy Resin Composites

David Phillips

Formation of a Wood-Based Thermoplastic Matrix Composite

Shannon Pipik

Design of a Compression Bending Fixture to Test Out-of-Plane Behavior of Composite Materials at Elevated Temperatures

Astrid Rosario

Cure Reactions of Vinyl Esterh/Sturene Matrix Resins

Julia Rosolovsky

Influsion of Silber into Polyimides by the use of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Formation of Reflective Surfaces

Joseph Schmidt

Hyperbranched Poly(aryl ester)s: Synthesis, Characterization, and Funcationalization

Daniel Webb

Water Soluble Polymer Adsorption on Metal Oxides

Michael Weber

Preparation of Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) for Aqueous Suspension Prepregging

Ken Zukor

Design of a Computer Interface to Study Material Properties

Name
Abstract Title

Timothy Bass

One Dimensional Resin Transfer Molding Process Modeling

Natasha Case

The Analysis of Macro- and Macro-Mechanical Deformation in Polymethylmethacrylate Sealants

Michael Curtis

High Performane Interphase Toughening Agents

Hans DeSmidt

The Effect of Variable Binders on Mechanical and Fiber/Matrix Interphase Properties of Peek/AS4 Composite Systems

Lorraine Dupersoy

Dynamic Differential Scanning Calorimetry And Analysis Of Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate)

Holly Gurbacki

The Effects Of Substrate Plasticity On Adhesive Bond Toughness

Christopher Harris

Fly Ash Reinforced Poly(Ether Ether Ketone) Matrix Composites Prepared By Mechanical Alloying

William Heard

Adhesive Bonding For The Hsct: Characterization And Bond Durability Of Ti-6al-4v Adherends

Monique Jackson

Characterization Of Fluorinated Cellulose Ester Membranes

Lawino Kagumba

Miscibility Studies Of Potential Polymeric Interphase Materials For Application In Carbon Fiber – Vinyl Ester/ Epoxy Matrix Composites

Njeri Lawrence

Surface Chemical Studies Of Corona Treated Polymer Substrates

Julie Martin

Effects Of Solvent Induced Crystallinity By Acetone In Poly(Ether Ether Ketone)

Fred McBagonluri

One Dimensional Resin Transfer Molding Process Modeling

Takia Oglesby

Conductivity Comparison Of Solution Blending Versus Mechanical Alloying Of Polyelectrolytes

Michael Owellen

Biotribology: “In Vitro” Studies Of Friction, Wear, And Lubrication Of Articular Cartilage

Kibley Parker

Fluorinated Cellulose Esters As Surface-Modifying Additives In Cellulose Coating Systems

Bethany Revak

Biotribology: Degradation of Synovial Fluid By Reactive Oxygen Species

Joel Schall

Ring-opening Polymerization Of Macrocycles: Enhanced Processibility of High Performance Polymers

Todd Scheele

Uptake Into Chitosan Hydrogel Beads

Marc Schultz

Modeling of Composite Consolidation

Corey Senowitz

Tri-Calcium Phosphate Reinforced Phb/Phv Copolymer For Use In An Intramedullary Fracture Fixation Device

Christy Sensenich

Synthesis And Characterization Of Water Soluble Poly(Amic Acid) Salts From Ultem Poly(Amic Acid)

Dan Shantz

One Dimensional Resin Transfer Molding Process Modeling

Becky Sheridan

Durability Of Adhesively Bonded Thin Polymer Films

Paul Sholtz

Secondary Crystallization In Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate

Keisha Sopher

Improved Woodworking Adhesives Based On Emulsion Polymerization Of Polyvinyl Acetate

Rebecca Ortiz

Buckling Characterization Of Rectangular Angle-Ply Composite Plates

Kiersten Urban

The Effect Of Modulus Gradients On The Strength Of Model Aluminum/Ceramer Butt Joints

Neda Vukmirovic

Waterborne And Methyl Ethyl Ketone Dispersed Epoxies For Use In Circuit Board Applications

Michael Yilma

Understanding Molecular Models