ANGOLA – Four Trine University chemical engineering students got paid to stay in school this summer, gaining invaluable research experience while contributing toward new technologies aimed at improving our environmental impact.
Seniors Marshall Beebe, Nappanee; Natalie Crowner, Saline, Mich.; Jake Doyle, Marengo, Ill.; and junior Allison Korpi, Gladstone, Mich.; were awarded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) fellowships, allowing them to perform cutting-edge research at universities and laboratories across the Midwest.
This marks an increase in the number of Trine chemical engineering students participating in summer research programs compared to recent years.
"Trine students gain new transferable skills when participating in summer programs such as REUs," said Matthew Liberatore, Ph.D., department chair. "Having run an REU program previously, I've seen firsthand the advantages of students learning how to perform research, strengthening their communication, working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and creating value for our program, employers and graduate programs. Chemical engineering at Trine benefits from REUs as these students return to campus ready to apply their new skills in the classroom, lab and extracurricular activities."
Beebe: From Classroom To Oak Ridge National Laboratory
This summer, Beebe, a senior, took his passion for chemical engineering to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), where he worked as an ORISE SULI Intern (Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship), according to a provided news release. Beebe's research focused on developing high-performance biocomposites for additive manufacturing (3D printing), specifically by modifying pine fibers with bio-based epoxy to improve mechanical properties and reduce the environmental footprint, compared to petroleum-based epoxys.
Beebe was excited to have been selected for this prestigious internship at a renowned national laboratory.
"I was super excited when I learned that I was selected to participate in the SULI program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It is a very prestigious institution where a lot of professional scientists and researchers work," he said.
During his 10-week internship, Beebe was responsible for determining the optimal amounts of bio-based epoxy, polymer and biomass needed to create the composite, as well as preparing the samples for testing. The newer composites are used for 3D printing, allowing for greater complexity than a typical molding process.
His work culminated in the creation of biocomposites with wide-ranging applications, including as construction materials due to their low weight, affordability, printability and strength.
At the project's completion, Beebe presented his work on-site at the ORNL research symposium. He also had the opportunity to co-author a research publication, which he hopes will be published next year.
Reflecting on his experience, Beebe said, "My favorite part so far has been learning how research is conducted at a national laboratory. Seeing how so many distinguished researchers and scientists work is very exciting. Also, creating the physical biocomposites from start to finish was very rewarding."
Beebe's experience at ORNL not only enhanced his academic and professional development, it sparked an interest in pursuing graduate studies.
"This project has increased my knowledge of biocomposite formation and data interpretation, while also improving my skills in communicating results. All the work I have done has interested me in going to graduate school and has opened doors for contacts that can help me in the future." he said.
On-Campus Opportunities
Over the past five years, Trine chemical engineering has also increased the number of undergraduate research opportunities within the department, available on campus during the fall and spring semesters.
Students have the opportunity for mentorship under Trine faculty to study topics ranging from alternative energy and biofuels, cell culture and therapeutics, rheology, engineering education and machine learning. These opportunities allow for presentations at local and regional conferences in addition to major-specific elective credits.