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Research Projects

Below you will find a brief description of each project, click on the project title to be taken to a page with further information.

Calcite Surface Chemistry

This project focuses on the behavior of calcite (CaCO₃) surfaces during environmentally relevant processes. A molecular level understanding of calcite surface interactions is the goal of the project which is carried out through the Center for Environmental Molecular Science at Stonybrook University.

Arsenic (III) oxidation by Manganese oxide Nanoparticles

Manganese minerals, naturally present in environment, serve as potential surfaces, which can undergo reduction reactions and oxidize As (III) to As (V). To investigate this surface phenomenon, time resolved study of arsenic (III) oxidation by manganese nano particle was monitored by using AFM, XPS, Ion Chromatography (IC) and ATR-FTIR .

Pyrite Surface Chemistry

The oxidation of pyrite (FeS₂) and subsequent production of sulfuric acid is a major problem in mining areas across the United States and the world. The problem is referred to as acid mine drainage and costs states like Pennsylvania millions of dollars a day. Our research group looks at ways to inhibit pyrite oxidation and the extent of acid mine drainage. Recently our group began a collaboration with Stony Brook University and Montana State University to investigate the link between pyrite and iron sulfur clusters that perform nitrogen reduction in some bacterial enzymes. The collaboration is known as the Astrobiology Biogeocatalysis Research Center (ABRC).

Ferrihydrite: Synthesis/Structure, Reactivity and Phase Transistions

Ferrihydrite is a widespread nanoscale iron oxyhydroxide mineral withrelevance in environmental and industrial systems. Current research inour laboratory focuses on structure determination and the study of phasetransitions to other iron oxides and hydroxides.

Surface Catalytic Chemistry (Rochow Synthesis)

The production of methylchlorosilanes, a monomer used for production of silicones, is a billion dollar a year industry. Using methyl chloride gas and silicon as reactants, a copper catalyst, and selected metallic promoters, we are able to examine the surface of the reaction mixture as products evolve. Using ATR and GC, we are able to track changes in the surface of the reaction mass as product distribution evolves in terms of selectivity and reactivity.