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This summer, Kaytlin Henry ’07 (Little Egg Harbor, N.J.) has been searching for an environmentally friendly way to extract the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from industrial emissions.
She tested the use of ionic liquid in the separation process. Ionic liquids are organic salts that melt at 100 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, sometimes even below room temperature. Their high thermal stability, good dissolution qualities, and resistance to flames have made them increasingly popular as an alternative to volatile organic compounds in extraction procedures.
Henry collaborated with Sam Morton, assistant professor of chemical engineering, on the EXCEL project. In Lafayette’s distinctive EXCEL Scholars program students conduct research with faculty while earning a stipend. The program has helped to make Lafayette a national leader in undergraduate research. Many of the more than 160 students who participate each year share their work through articles in academic journals and/or conference presentations.
Though much of her research is speculative and unlikely to show concrete results for years, Henry found the groundbreaking nature of the project exciting.
“It’s really fortunate that I was able to do this research because I want to go to graduate school and this is preparing me for that,” says the chemical engineering major.
Henry’s responsibilities included proximity testing of the ionic liquids to see where their highest concentrations occur. That work will lay the foundation for future studies on how ionic liquids can be used in the separation process.
Morton describes the work as “setting up a screening system for ionic liquids,” in which Henry will test the substances against a lab system. Morton is hoping to partner with DuPont to obtain the ionic liquids.
The long-range benefits of the research will be a less expensive and more environmentally sound way to remove carbon dioxide from industrial emissions.
“These compounds have the opportunity to decrease the amount of energy it takes to extract carbon dioxide,” Morton explains. “There are possible benefits down the road, maybe not in the next five years, but maybe the next ten.”
For Henry, the project was an opportunity to develop a keen interest in the environmental aspects of science. She cites her studies in environmental chemistry and green engineering as major influences in her passion for chemical engineering.
Lafayette’s learning atmosphere and supportive environment for undergraduate research have helped her achieve academic and personal goals.
“I really enjoy the small class sizes, the fact that you get to know the professors,” Henry says. “They know your name and what your interests are and can help you, whereas in a large class, there are just too many people.”
Morton believes that Henry, who will continue this research for her honors thesis, has gained valuable experience.
“She’s been effective and has spent a lot of time learning,” he says. “Kaytlin has expressed interest in the environmental side of chemical engineering. The analytical tools she’s picked up, she can use in any way she wants. Having had laboratory work will really benefit her if she goes to graduate school.”
Henry is president of Quintessence and co-director of Soulfege, two a cappella singing groups. She is on the steering committee of Arts Society and is a member of the student chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. She is a graduate of Pinelands Regional High School.
As a national leader in undergraduate research, Lafayette sends one of the largest contingents to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research each year. Forty students were accepted to present their research at this year’s conference.