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Developing Bio-based (CNSL) Cellular Products
Abdul Al Alawi
Abdul Al Alawi
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Developing Bio-based (CNSL) Cellular Products

Transform cashew nutshell byproducts into sustainable cellular materials that address environmental needs while showcasing innovative uses in various industries.

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Apply now
Tuesdays
 at
9:00
P.M.
 ET /
6:00
P.M.
PT
8 weeks, 2-3 hours per week
Intermediate
No experience required
No experience required
Some experience required
Degree and experience required

Description

In the rapidly evolving field of sustainable materials, addressing environmental impact through innovative solutions is crucial. In this Build Project, you'll wear the hat of a Materials Engineer and develop bio-based cellular products using cashew nutshell liquid as a key component.  

Under the supervision of an experienced industry expert, you'll prepare and test various sustainable materials, learning to apply cutting-edge analytical methods like FTIR and Karl Fischer. You'll become familiar with industry-standard techniques for material characterization and production, all within an environment that simulates real-world engineering challenges and team dynamics.

Important Details:

  • No Physical Materials Required: Students will not need to purchase any materials or conduct physical manipulations during the project; everything will be conducted online.
  • Free Software: All analyses will utilize free, readily available software tools, ensuring no additional costs for participants.
  • Project Format: The project will include a mix of pre-recorded instructional videos, live webinars for Q&A sessions, and interactive online discussions, alongside access to digital resources to support your learning.

Session timeline

  • Applications open
    December 1, 2024
  • Application deadline
    January 15, 2025
  • Project start date
    Week of July 8, 2024
    Week of
    February 3, 2025
  • Project end date
    Week of

What you will learn

  • Apply analytical methods such as FTIR, Karl Fischer, and viscometer techniques to assess the physical and chemical properties of bio-based materials.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of sustainable materials, including cashew nutshell liquid-based foams, through comprehensive testing and data analysis.
  • Develop and optimize resin preparation and foam production processes, incorporating best practices and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Collaborate effectively in a team setting to design, execute, and present findings from experimental projects focused on eco-friendly material innovations.
Build Projects are 8-week experiences that operate on a rolling basis. Selected participants engage in weekly live workshops with a Build Fellow and 2-15 other students.

Project workshops

1
Kickoff and Overview
2
Exploring CNSL and Work Environment
3
ISO Index Calculation and Material Selection
4
Resin Preparation and Analytical Methods
5
Foam Sample Production
6
Physical Properties Analysis
7
Evaluate Analytical Methods and Prepare Final Presentation
8
Present and Review

Prerequisites

  • Intermediate Knowledge of Materials Science: You should understand the fundamentals of materials science, particularly in polymers and cellular plastics, as covered in classes like “Introduction to Materials Science” or “Polymer Chemistry.” You should be comfortable with concepts like material properties, polymerization, and the role of additives in polymer formulation.
  • Basic Analytical Skills: You need to be able to use and interpret results from various analytical instruments such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Karl Fischer titration, and viscometers. Experience with these tools, or coursework in “Analytical Chemistry” or “Instrumental Analysis,” will be essential for evaluating material properties.
  • Proficiency in Data Analysis: You should be skilled in using software tools like MS Excel for data analysis and visualization. Familiarity with statistical methods and data interpretation is crucial, as you will be analyzing experimental results and preparing reports based on your findings.
  • Effective Communication Skills: You need to be able to clearly communicate your findings and project progress through written reports and presentations. This includes creating clear, concise PowerPoint slides and presenting complex information in an understandable manner. Experience in public speaking or coursework in “Technical Writing” will be beneficial.
  • Team Collaboration and Problem-Solving Abilities: The project involves collaborative tasks, so being able to work effectively in a team, manage time, and resolve issues as they arise is important. Skills in team projects or experience from group assignments in previous classes will help you contribute to and lead project efforts successfully.

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About the expert

Abdul Al Alawi

Materials Engineer Fellow
Open Avenues Foundation

I am a Specialist Materials Engineer at Ambit Polyurethane, where my role encompasses a range of exciting and impactful responsibilities. I am specifically responsible for the development of polyurethane systems designed for 3D printing applications in the construction of buildings and residential structures. This involves conducting chemical synthesis of recycled plastic bottles, polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Material Science and Engineering from University of North Texas.

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