Dr. Zahran Elsayed
<b>Department: </b>Department of Chemistry<br><b>Research Area: </b>Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Department: Department of Chemistry
Research Focus: Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Potential Student Project(s):
The research aims to develop highly effective photocatalysts to sustainability eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These pollutants persist in the environment for decades and pose significant health and ecological risks. The project will focus on creating bismuth-based metal oxide heterojunctions to broaden visible-light absorption and boost photocatalytic performance under sunlight. Advanced synthesis methods will be used to attach carbon dots to the photocatalysts, further improving light capture and charge separation. The effectiveness of these multifunctional photocatalysts will be tested for PFAS degradation. We will optimize conditions to produce stable, highly active photocatalysts, supporting the development of sustainable water treatment solutions for halogenated organic pollutants.
Attributes/skills/background sought in undergraduate:
High school chemistry and enrolled or passed CHEM 111.
Mentoring Plan:
The student researcher will work 5 h/week on the project including at least 1 hour/week of 1-on-1 interaction with Dr. Zahran. These research points are designed to fit undergraduate students' intermittent schedules while providing training in nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and photocatalysis needed to obtain reproducible results. Undergraduate researchers joining Dr. Zahran's group will receive training for the first few weeks to become familiar with the methods and equipment. They will also collaborate with graduate students in the group to receive guidance on lab procedures and techniques. They will also have several opportunities to disseminate their results at local, regional, and national conferences and as co-authors on peer-reviewed journal articles submitted for publication.
Contact: 765-285-8070, FB 409