Synthesizing a Property-Specific Polymer as the Crux of a Pond Liner Repair Method
Department
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Major
Chemical Engineering
Research Advisor
Henthorn, David
Advisor's Department
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Funding Source
Opportunities for Undergraduate Research Experiences (OURE)
Abstract
Modern industrial facilities widely utilize retention ponds to isolate contaminants from groundwater; this is accomplished largely via pond liners made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). At present, companies are forced to replace entire liners to prevent leaks through even small tears and rips—no method currently exists to fix these liners on a small scale.
This project will focus on the first step of a proposed liner repair method. That is, can a polymer that exhibits HDPE-like properties (durable, inert, inexpensive) be formed in situ, allowing for an easily implemented patch?
Biography
Lucas McIntosh is currently a sophomore at the University of Missouri--Rolla working toward a B.S. in chemical engineering. He is a member of the Chancellor’s Leadership Academy, Honors Academy, TJHA, and Voyager Learning Community. He is the son of Douglas and Joyce McIntosh.
Research Category
Research Proposals
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Award
Research Proposals, Second place
Presentation Date
12 Apr 2006, 9:00 am
Synthesizing a Property-Specific Polymer as the Crux of a Pond Liner Repair Method
Modern industrial facilities widely utilize retention ponds to isolate contaminants from groundwater; this is accomplished largely via pond liners made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). At present, companies are forced to replace entire liners to prevent leaks through even small tears and rips—no method currently exists to fix these liners on a small scale.
This project will focus on the first step of a proposed liner repair method. That is, can a polymer that exhibits HDPE-like properties (durable, inert, inexpensive) be formed in situ, allowing for an easily implemented patch?