Articles tagged with Chemical Engineering
The US chemical industry saw significant earnings growth in Q4 2004, with total earnings rising 52% year-over-year to $9.58 billion. Sales increased 15.1% to $139.7 billion, driving aggregate profitability to 6.9%. Rising selling prices and strong demand fundamentals contributed to the growth.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have successfully levitated micron-sized fluids using small magnets on a postage-stamp sized chip. This innovation enables the control of tiny droplets and crystals, opening up possibilities for future research in DNA manipulation, nanotubes, and other areas.
Two University of Houston chemical engineering students built a fuel-cell-powered shoebox car that carried 400ml water 75ft in under an hour. The team's achievement marked the first time UH students participated at the national level.
The Florida Institute of Technology has launched a hydrogen fuel cell research center with a focus on developing new mainstream energy sources. The center, which brings together faculty from various colleges, aims to pool expertise and solve complex problems in the field.
Researchers have successfully grown ultralong carbon nanotubes that exhibit superior electrical properties to copper, a world record for nano-materials of this length. The discovery paves the way for innovative applications in supercomputers and healthcare.
Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology have discovered a novel filtration system that can efficiently separate proteins, a crucial step for pharmaceutical applications. The new technology uses a membrane with almost identical molecular weights for proteins, making the process more cost-effective and faster.
A team of researchers developed a mathematical model to explain the 5-second delay between head motion and vertigo attacks, suggesting that tiny particles called otoconia may be responsible. The study used hydrodynamic models to show that loose otoconia can cause disruptions in the inner ear, leading to dizziness.
Charles Liotta and Charles Eckert developed benign tunable solvents that couple reaction and separation processes, reducing waste and allowing recycling of catalysts. Their sustainable technology uses near-critical water, supercritical carbon dioxide, and other eco-friendly methods.
Demand for US chemical products increased while firms cut costs. Dow Chemical topped sales at $9.3 billion, followed by DuPont at $8 billion. DuPont led earnings with $964 million, ahead of Dow's $469 million increase in the same quarter last year.
The 2003 Starting Salary Survey shows a shift in employment patterns among new chemistry Ph.D. graduates, with more taking lower paying academic positions. Median salaries were lower than previous classes, with bachelor's graduates still below the all-time high.
A team of researchers has successfully synthesized polyols from soy oil through air oxidation, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based chemicals. This breakthrough could lead to the development of biocompatible and biodegradable materials for various industries.
The Virginia Tech trio of Tom Ward, James McGrath, and Garth Wilkes has been awarded the Paul J. Flory Polymer Education Award by the American Chemical Society Division of Polymer Chemistry for their long-term efforts in educating students in polymer science and engineering. The award recognizes the trio's creation of an interdisciplin...
Companies like Gemesis and Apollo Diamond are creating lab-grown diamonds over a carat in size that match mined counterparts in terms of chemical and physical properties. Additionally, colored diamonds can be created by introducing controlled elemental impurities, such as nitrogen for yellow stones or boron for blue gems.
Researchers create new microfluidic chip assembly method using glass microscope slides, tweezers, and a flexible polymer, cutting design and manufacture time from weeks to hours. The new approach enables scientists to test ideas quickly and conduct research in typical laboratories.
A team of UC Davis students conducted experiments on formation of new materials by combustion in an electric field using NASA's 'Vomit Comet' aircraft. The low-gravity environment enhanced the effect of the electric field, creating unique properties in new materials.
The Honeywell center at Virginia Tech fosters collaboration between faculty and students on creative research projects. These partnerships have led to significant revenue increases for companies like Honeywell Specialty Materials.
Researchers at Purdue University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the formation of drops from nozzles, which could lead to new methods for making threads, wires, and particles. The team found that when a nozzle is immersed into sticky liquids, such as honey or silicone oil, the drop forms differently, creating an extremely th...
The SCOPE/IUPAC project aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of endocrine active substances. A comprehensive review will facilitate risk assessment and inform policy decisions on addressing these issues.
A University of Toronto professor has created a way to turn hemp into strong and lightweight biocomposites. These materials can be used in various applications such as automotive interior parts, structural buildings, sports equipment, and even medical devices like cardiac devices and blood bags.
Consuming foods containing trans fatty acids raises LDL cholesterol and the risk of coronary heart disease. Manufacturers can create these unhealthy fats by hydrogenating unsaturated oils, making them artery-cloggers.
Virginia Tech researchers have developed a process to create acrylic fibers without solvents, reducing processing time and environmental impact. The new method uses a photocrosslinkable group that reacts with UV light, allowing for faster and more efficient production of carbon fibers.
The American Chemical Society's 80th anniversary issue highlights the Periodic Table of Elements, exploring its role in everyday life and containing pertinent technical information. The special issue features essays from Nobel Prize winners, industry experts, and authors who helped discover elements.
A new study suggests that massive methane releases could have led to the extinction of up to 95% of marine species and 70% of land species. The researcher estimates that 10,000 gigatons of dissolved methane could have been released, causing catastrophic conflagrations and flooding.
Dale J. Kempf, Daniel W. Norbeck, and Hing L. Sham receive award for developing Kaletra, the first HIV protease inhibitor approved for use in children as young as six months old.
The Wyeth Pharmaceuticals team is being recognized for their role in developing the first combined pneumococcal vaccine for infants, Prevnar. The vaccine has dramatically advanced the health and well-being of children worldwide by preventing serious diseases such as meningitis, bacteremia, and pneumonia.
The Pfizer Inc team won the Heroes of Chemistry award for developing Neurontin, a medication controlling seizures in children. This breakthrough led to improved quality of life for many children with epilepsy, demonstrating the valuable role chemists play in improving lives.
The story of low-tech erasers begins in the 1560s with graphite sticks and evolves into crude pencils. In 1839, Charles Goodyear developed the vulcanization process to cure rubber, increasing strength, stability, and elasticity. This innovation enabled mass production of pencil erasers.
The Amorphophallus titan, or 'Ted the Titan,' produces a distinctive odor to attract flies for pollination. Scientists have identified compounds in the plant's scent that are similar to those found in rotting meat, and research is underway to isolate these compounds and explore their potential uses.
A team of University of Toronto researchers has created a biodegradable scaffold that accelerates bone healing rates by providing a building structure for bone growth. The scaffold, similar in structure to a dish sponge, eventually dissolves, eliminating the need for expensive chemicals called bone growth factors.
DuPont researchers developed a new way to make methyl isocyanate on site, reducing hazardous material handling by thousands of pounds. The approach has changed the company's handling of many hazardous chemicals, enhancing its environmental safety.
The discovery of organic zeolites with functionalized methyl and methylene groups marks a significant step forward in creating catalysts that mimic enzymes. The incorporation of these organic materials into the structure of silicate-based zeolites could promote novel reactions with improved selectivity.
The American Chemical Society's editor-in-chief, Jacobs, has won a national award for her efforts to encourage women in chemistry careers. Despite complex issues such as family life and career demands, Jacobs continues to advocate for women in the field through publications and public speaking.
Manzer has led the development of commercially viable replacements for CFCs, including HFC 134A in automobile air conditioners. He also designed catalysts that can make polycarbonate without generating another ozone-depleting compound as a byproduct.
The hair dye market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the popularity of permanent dyes that can last up to six weeks. According to recent studies, 42% of American women and 25% of American men use hair dyes, with 37% of consumers using them in the previous year.
The University of Michigan College of Engineering will unveil the Fast Imaging Plasma Spectrometer (FIPS), a revolutionary instrument for NASA's MESSENGER Mission to Mercury. The FIPS project demonstrates how high-performance, low-weight instruments can be used to explore the solar system without risk to human life.
Researchers at MIT create a switchable surface that can change from water-attracting to water-repelling by applying an electric field, with potential applications in drug delivery and biomedical engineering. The surface's properties are controlled using conformational transitions, allowing for reversible modification.
Harold A. Sorgenti receives the Petrochemical Heritage Award for his entrepreneurial and community leadership achievements in the petrochemical sector. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the modern sciences, industries, and economies.
Seven companies successfully innovate and outperform established firms, despite economic challenges. These startups and spinouts leverage unique strategies to build success, including Actimmune and fluorous products.
Peter Rensberger has been recognized with the American Chemical Society's James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public. The award aims to promote outstanding reporting that fosters a public understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, and related fields.
The American Chemical Society's Scholars Program received a $100,000 boost from Procter & Gamble to emphasize the importance of diversity in the chemical sciences. The program supports academically accomplished African American, Hispanic and Native American students pursuing undergraduate studies in chemistry-related disciplines.
Researchers from DSM High Performance Fibers have developed a super-strong polyethylene fiber called Dyneema, which provides maximum protection at minimal weight. The material is used in armored gear, safety products, and sports equipment, offering significant contributions to protecting human lives.
James R. Moran, a fellow at Solutia Inc., has developed a laminated safety glass that can absorb blast pressure and energy, protecting people from flying glass shards and debris in explosions. This technology was recognized by the American Chemical Society's Heroes of Chemistry program for its contribution to improving public safety.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel molecular template that enables the creation of surfaces with varying particle concentrations. This innovation allows for the design of sensors, filters, and other devices that can be tailored for specific applications in electronics, chemistry, and life sciences.
Ford researchers Ellen C. Lee and Deborah F. Mielewski discover a new process to evenly distribute silicate clay particles in plastic matrices, resulting in improved strength, lightness, and design flexibility.
General Motors researchers have developed a new generation of automobile plastics using molecule-size mineral fillers like clay. The new nanocomposites are stronger, lighter, and offer more design flexibility for automakers.
The 'What's That Stuff?' column in Chemical & Engineering News is one of five top sites recognized by Scientific American for informative and engaging chemistry content. The column has been widely shared among scientists, students, educators, and industry professionals, who appreciate its ability to make everyday materials fascinating.
The team's new process eliminates toluene and generates less waste, producing a safer and more sustainable herbicide. The award recognizes the contributions of individual researchers at DuPont who worked together to achieve this innovative breakthrough.
NC State researchers create polymers that allow larger molecules to pass through, improving both permeability and selectivity. The 'reverse-selective' membranes have potential applications in natural-gas suppliers and petroleum processors.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a technique to create nano-structured polymer films with tunable refractive index, enabling faster and cheaper conversion of electrical signals to optical signals. This innovation has the potential to speed up access to the Internet, making it more accessible and affordable for widespread use.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are making significant strides in nanotechnology, developing chemical and biological sensors that will be far more sensitive, selective, and cost-effective. They are also creating advanced materials, structures, and devices for various electronic and photonic applications.
Bipin V. Vora has developed more efficient ways to make chemicals from petroleum, reducing environmental harm. His work on linear alkylbenzenes has improved the manufacture of environmentally-friendly detergents, making them safer for water and wildlife.
Kurt W. Swogger, Dow vice president of research and development, received the American Chemical Society's Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management. The award recognizes his innovative approach to developing customer-specific plastics using molecular architecture, which has led to increased efficiency and suc...
Chicago chemist James P. Shoffner has been honored with the American Chemical Society's Award for Encouraging Disadvantaged Students into Careers in the Chemical Sciences. Through initiatives like Project SEED, he provides opportunities for young students from inner cities to gain laboratory experience and connect with role models.
Ray Dessy, a renowned chemist, has received the Dreyfus Foundation Senior Mentor Award to support undergraduate research in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) use. The award will fund projects with students from various fields, including chemistry, engineering, and computer science.
Langer's groundbreaking research in controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering has paved the way for a multi-billion dollar industry. His work has led to the development of novel biodegradable polymers with medical applications, including a FDA-approved treatment for brain cancer that extends patient lives.
The new method reduces drop size using a three-stage cycle, resulting in smaller drops with improved printing quality and reduced material consumption. The technique has potential applications in pharmaceutical research, genomics studies, and other fields where precise liquid deposition is crucial.
Scientists have created a novel crystal lattice with unprecedented optical properties, enabling the manipulation of light at higher frequencies. This breakthrough has potential applications in telecommunications and drug separation.
The ACS Scholars Program provides financial support to minority students pursuing undergraduate studies in chemistry and related disciplines. With over $850,000 in awards anticipated for the next two semesters, the program aims to increase diversity in the chemical sciences workforce. Students can receive up to $3,000 per year and bene...
DuPont has donated $100,000 to the ACS Scholars Program, supporting 10 minority students pursuing college-level study in chemistry and chemical engineering. The program aims to develop minority scientists and engineers to address demographic predictions of a workforce shortage.
ExxonMobil scientists have developed a novel catalyst and process called SCANfiningTM, effective in reducing cracked naphtha sulfur levels up to 99%. The new process overcomes challenges of traditional methods, which are either too expensive or result in lost octane required for modern engines.