Student research fuels the future

Thursday, 11 October 2007

Student research projects that delve into alternative energy and fuel sources are among the innovative work being highlighted in a new exhibition at the University of Adelaide today.

The annual poster exhibition - of work by fourth-year Chemical Engineering students - includes projects that could impact on our everyday lives in years to come.

Sponsored by Santos and the Australian Institute of Energy - SA Branch, the exhibition includes the results of student work into a number of projects focusing on alternative energy and fuel sources, such as:

• the development of a hydrogen fuel cell and power systems for a prototype hybrid motor vehicle;
  
• the production of biodiesel from microalgae, and related issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions from biodiesel produced from microalgae; and
  
• recovery of geothermal energy from hot dry rocks.

Among the many other projects on display are those that have a direct link with industry and application in the real world, such as:

• heat transfer in computer systems, and the design of novel solutions;
  
• the impact of recycled process water in minerals processing;
  
• production of nanoparticles using nanoreactors.

"The breadth of student talent and the potential implications of this work for the future are always fascinating to see, and this year we have some outstanding projects in our student exhibition," says the Head of the School of Chemical Engineering, Professor Keith King.

"This event provides an excellent visual representation of all of the hard work the students have put into their final-year projects. Importantly, it brings the students in even closer contact with members of industry and government, some of whom have already become new employers of these students."

WHAT: Chemical Engineering Level IV Research Poster Presentations
WHERE: Room A314, School of Chemical Engineering, North Terrace Campus, University of Adelaide
WHEN: 12:30-2:00pm Thursday 11 October

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