Author: neluiz

Authors: Jocelyn Hinchcliffe, Rayna Jacob, Brooke Struble and Kenneth Smith

Advisors: Prof. Grant Burrier and Prof. Scott Jiusto

Category: Undergraduate – IQP

Abstract: The urban neighborhood of Gandul in San Juan struggles with food insecurity due to limited local bodegas, high grocery costs, and economic pressures. Our student team collaborated with the Gandul Community Center and Corporación La Fondita de Jesús to develop an efficient hydroponic garden that provides a sustainable source of fresh produce for the local community. The project ultimately produced a custom hydroponic system, an operating manual for the system, and an educational activities pamphlet, each of which serves to enhance community health, hydroponics education, and community self-sufficiency.

Presentation:

Hydroponic Gardening in Gandul, San Juan

Author: Mana Masrouri

Advisor: Prof. Jamal Yagoobi

Category: Graduate

Abstract: This project aims to develop a hybrid waste heat recovery system consisting of high-temperature industrial heat pumps to recover waste heat from the exhaust air of the drying processes and increase their efficiency.

UN SDGs:

SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy

SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

Poster Presentation:

GR 10 – EHD-Driven Heat Pump – Masrouri

Author: Jason Porter

Advisor: Prof. Brajendra Mishra

Category: Graduate

Abstract: While the electrodes in lead-acid batteries are readily recyclable, sulfuric acid electrolyte is contaminated with trace metal ions which preclude reuse in new batteries. We will use nanofiltration to decontaminate the spent electrolyte, in which pressure is applied against the fluid so that it passes through a porous membrane, trapping multivalent metal ions. Because of the logistics involved in transporting a mostly water-based fluid, we will distill spent electrolyte so secondary electrolyte can compete with primary sulfuric acid. In membrane distillation, a gradient in vapor pressure will drive excess water in the feed across a hydrophobic membrane into the permeate. This way, we can avoid the costs of neutralizing the sulfuric acid and then treating the effluent for disposal.

Poster Presentation:

20-03 – Electrolyte Recovery from Lead-Acid Batteries 12 04 2024