Past Teams

AFI Charcoal Kiln

This project, which ran from Spring 2014 to Spring 2015, aimed to design a commercial-scale, semi-continuous kiln to convert palm kernel shells into biocharcoal for cleaner, more efficient cooking fuel in Benin. The project provided foundational insights into sustainable fuel alternatives and emissions reduction while addressing deforestation and indoor air pollution challenges.

Aquaponic System Design at the Watersmeet Trout Hatchery

This project, which ran from Spring 2013 to Fall 2014, aimed to develop a mid-size aquaponic system as an educational tool for local schools, demonstrating ecosystem interactions among fish, plants, and bacteria. The final design provided a sustainable learning model for students to explore aquaponics principles and environmental science.

Basalt Fiber Roofing Tiles

This project, which ran from Fall 2017 to Spring 2019, aimed to develop basalt fiber roofing tiles using a variety of material compositions to enhance durability and performance. The team successfully created four prototype variants.

BASF Water Filtration

This project, which ran from Fall 2014 to Spring 2015, aimed to design a portable water filtration system capable of purifying water at four different purity levels from the Detroit River. The team conducted extensive lab testing, developed a quality constraints table for each stream, and performed research on water purification methods.

Bemis Collapsible Package Design for Mid-Size Containers

This project, which ran from Spring 2015, aimed to develop a flexible packaging solution for 1.5-gallon fluid containers that maintain upright stability without slouching or wrinkling. The project explored design prototypes, tested material feasibility, and created a numeric evaluation system for packaging rigidity and visual appeal.

Biochar Reactor & Water Filtration System Development

This project, which ran from Spring 2013 to Spring 2014, aimed to construct and optimize a biochar reactor and water filtration system for implementation in villages in India. The team focused on designing and testing a bolt-assembled reactor, assessing potential welding improvements, and ensuring lab safety. The project provided valuable insights into biochar production methods and filtration strategies while addressing material accessibility for replication in India.

Boxcar Insulation Team

This project, which ran from Fall 2014 to Spring 2015, aimed to design an insulation solution for Wisconsin & Southern Rail, complete with construction instructions and thermal results. The project provided valuable insights into thermal modeling and enhanced the usability of insulation data for industry applications.

Britten Studios Load Quantification of Wind Spilling Technology

This project, which ran from Fall 2016 to Spring 2017, aimed to analyze the effects of Britten Studios’ BannerSaver product on light poles by quantifying its load reduction during high wind conditions. Recommendations were provided to the sponsor to guide future product development and marketing strategies.

CAT/SWE Team

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to develop a method for detecting inefficiencies in Wheel Tractor Scraper operations to improve performance and reduce wasted effort. The project successfully provided insights into scraper behavior and potential solutions for optimizing operation efficiency.

CertainTeed Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Reuse Solutions for Painting Processes

This project, which ran from Fall 2022 to Spring 2023, aimed to explore methods for reducing paint waste in CertainTeed’s ceiling tile manufacturing process by reclaiming and repurposing wash-up water and paint solids. The project provided valuable insights into sustainable waste reduction strategies for industrial painting processes.

Commercially Viable Keg Cleaner Device

This project, which ran from Fall 2017 to Spring 2023, aimed to develop a cost-effective, semi-automatic keg washing system to improve safety and efficiency for small-scale breweries. The project successfully created a functional prototype that automates cleaning cycles and reduces brewer exposure to hazardous chemicals, providing a practical solution for keg sanitation.

Doll n’ Burgers Condiment Packaging Development and Innovation

This project, which ran from Spring 2021 to Spring 2023, aimed to design an innovative ketchup container that attaches directly to a fry cup, allowing for one-handed dipping and safer consumption while driving. The project successfully advanced toward a finalized design and material selection, collaborating with Sussex IM for manufacturing feasibility and cost analysis.

Dow Pigmentation Team – Silicone Sealant Waste Reduction

This project, which ran from Fall 2012 to Spring 2013, aimed to develop solutions for reducing silicone sealant waste during color transitions by optimizing pipe lining, flanges, mixing elements, and flow characteristics. The team conducted extensive research, evaluated potential solutions, and prepared for testing by consulting with Dow Corning. The next steps involved finalizing the best waste reduction strategy through a teleconference, ordering materials, writing standard operating procedures (SOPs), and beginning lab tests with proper safety measures.

Electric Dish Scrubber Development

This project, which ran from Fall 2012 to Spring 2013, aimed to design and market an improved electric dish scrubber leveraging toothbrush-like technology. The team conducted research, developed design concepts, and performed market analysis to secure corporate sponsorship. The project focused on product feasibility, business case development, and preparation for prototyping and testing in future phases.

EZ Rider “Height Right” Adjustable Seatpost for Stationary Exercise Bikes

This project, which ran from Spring 2020 to Spring 2021, aimed to develop a low-cost, quick-adjusting seatpost for stationary exercise bikes to assist recovering knee surgery patients. The project successfully designed and tested a prototype that improves accessibility and usability, offering a user-friendly and affordable solution for physical therapy applications.

Fives Cinetic Chamber Washer Halo Improvement

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to develop a more reliable and cost-effective method for delivering water and air to the crankshaft washing system used in automotive manufacturing. The project successfully explored design improvements, including bendable hose integration and high-pressure testing, providing valuable insights into optimizing industrial cleaning systems.

GM Paint Sludge Reclamation and Reuse

This project, which ran from Fall 2018 to Spring 2019, aimed to develop a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for reclaiming and repurposing paint sludge waste from GM’s automotive painting process. The project provided valuable insights into sustainable disposal alternatives, offering potential solutions to reduce hazardous waste impact while exploring reuse applications.

GlaxoSmithKline Alternative Evaporation Technology for Solvent Exchange/Reduction in Pharmaceutical Production

This project, which ran from Fall 2023 to Spring 2024, aimed to develop alternative evaporation technologies for solvent exchange in pharmaceutical production to improve efficiency and reduce batch handling. The project provided valuable insights into scalable solvent removal solutions, focusing on thin film evaporation systems to enhance operational flexibility in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

GlaxoSmithKline Chloroform Detection in Waste Streams

This project, which ran from Fall 2024 to Spring 2025, aimed to develop a system for detecting and reducing chloroform levels in waste streams to improve disposal efficiency and environmental compliance. The project provided valuable insights into real-time waste stream monitoring and potential water separation techniques, helping to minimize hazardous waste volume and reduce disposal costs.

Hops Dryer Development

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to design a commercial hops dryer for small-scale growers that preserves essential oils and alpha acids while reducing drying time and cost. The project successfully developed tray and rotary drying systems, providing insights into efficient hops drying methods tailored to Michigan's growing market.

Huron Technologies Low-Temperature Curing Molykote Optimization

This project, which ran from Fall 2014 to Spring 2015, aimed to develop and test a molykote coating capable of withstanding high temperatures and loads while curing at lower temperatures. The project successfully explored material adhesion properties, safety assessments, and optimization of curing processes, providing valuable insights into industrial coatings for harsh environments.

Kimberly Clark Low Friction Folding Techniques for Material Webs

This project, which ran in Spring 2013, aimed to optimize a material folding board for Kimberly Clark by reducing friction and feathering along the production line. The project provided valuable insights into material evaluation, apparatus design, and process improvements to enhance efficiency in material folding applications.

Kimberly-Clark Consumer-Friendly In-Home Polyethylene Flex Film Recycling System

This project, which ran from Fall 2020 to Spring 2022, aimed to develop a consumer-friendly system for collecting and recycling polyethylene flex film packaging to provide a clean recycling stream. The project provided valuable insights into prototype development, campus-wide recycling trends, and effective consumer engagement strategies for sustainable waste management.

Kimberly-Clark Sustainable Packaging Development

This project, which ran from Fall 2016 to Spring 2017, aimed to identify sustainable alternatives for rigid packaging materials to reduce environmental impact and improve recyclability. The project provided valuable insights into material selection, life cycle assessment (LCA) studies, and optimization of recycled content without compromising performance.

Kohler Resin Recycling

This project, which ran from Spring 2018 to Spring 2019, aimed to develop methods for reusing and recycling waste streams from Kohler’s Vikrell process to improve sustainability. The project provided valuable insights into repurposing carrier film, flash, and dust waste while conducting ASTM testing and economic analysis for industrial applications.

Koppers In-Line Chemical Sensor for Copper, Ammonia, and Carbon Dioxide Concentrations

This project, which ran from Fall 2023 to Spring 2025, aimed to develop a continuous in-line monitoring system to measure ammonia, copper (II), and carbon dioxide concentrations more efficiently within Koppers' process streams. The project successfully evaluated and ranked measurement technologies, recommended PerkinElmer FTIR and Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis devices for implementation, and constructed a proof-of-concept pilot skid for real-time analysis. The final phase transitioned the project to Koppers Performance Chemicals for full-scale installation and integration into their plant operations.

Libbey Flatware Improvement

This project, which ran from Fall 2018 to Spring 2019, aimed to enhance the materials and coatings used in Libbey’s flatware to improve user experience and meet service market demands. The project successfully identified applicable technologies, established vendor relationships, tested treated and untreated materials, and conducted an economic analysis to inform Libbey’s decision-making.

Libbey Market-Based Glassware and Ceramic Mug Enhancements

This project, which ran from Fall 2019 to Spring 2020, aimed to improve the smudge resistance of Libbey’s glassware and ceramic mugs to enhance visual appearance after commercial washing. The project provided valuable insights into material coatings, manufacturing processes, and user experience improvements for the service industry.

Midland Watershed

This project, which ran from Fall 2013 to Fall 2015, aimed to research causes of flooding in Midland, Michigan, and explore options for improved flood prediction and mitigation. The project provided valuable insights into hydrological modeling, land use change analysis, and dam impact assessments to better understand flood risks in the Tittabawassee River watershed.

MTU Parking Structure Development

This project, which ran from Spring 2016 to Spring 2017, aimed to develop cost estimates and design models for a multi-story parking structure to support Transportation Services at Michigan Technological University. The project successfully explored construction feasibility, maintenance considerations, and AutoCAD modeling to provide a comprehensive planning solution.

Nalco and Ecolab Exploration of New Applications for 3D Trasar Water Treatment Technology

This project, which ran from Fall 2019 to Spring 2020, aimed to investigate new applications for Nalco’s 3D Trasar water treatment technology while assessing its role in sustainability and environmental initiatives. The project provided valuable insights into the technology’s capabilities and set the stage for further research and development upon resolution of NDA and IP agreements.

Investigation of NanoMAG in Hockey Stick Blades

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to enhance hockey blade performance by integrating NanoMAG, a nanomagnesium alloy with superior damping properties, to reduce vibration and improve puck control. The project successfully analyzed composite blade structures, conducted material tests, and developed a prototype mold for resin transfer molding to validate the technology’s benefits for high-level hockey players

Investigation of NanoMAG Inserts in Downhill Skis

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to explore the integration of NanoMAG inserts into downhill skis to enhance vibration damping and improve performance. The project successfully advanced resin transfer molding (RTM) techniques, developed prototype molds, and refined material processing for high-quality ski applications.

Oxygen-Selective Membrane for Whiskey Brewing

This project, which ran from Fall 2017 to Spring 2018, aimed to develop an oxygen-selective membrane to accelerate the aging process of white whiskey while preserving ethanol and flavor compounds. The project successfully tested various films, including BOPP, LLDPE, and Parafilm, using LCMS analysis to assess their impact on whiskey aging, leading to recommendations for further untargeted analysis.

ORG CHEM Group Alternative Heat Transfer Fluids Development

This project, which ran from Spring 2022 to Spring 2023, aimed to develop a heat transfer fluid (HTF) capable of operating at 240℃ in open-air conditions without degradation over several years. The project successfully explored existing HTFs, investigated ionic liquids, and proposed three viable alternatives to Marlotherm SH for testing and validation.

Sampling Methodology and Health Risks of PCBs in Fish

This project, which ran from Fall 2018 to Spring 2019, aimed to investigate the history and sampling methodology of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Michigan’s waters, assess their health risks, and explore their impact on fish consumption advisories. The project provided insights into PCB toxicity trends, regulatory assessment methods, and recommendations for balancing the benefits and risks of eating Great Lakes fish.

Razor Edge Systems Knife Sharpening Device Development

This project, which ran from Fall 2015 to Spring 2016, aimed to design a cost-effective and efficient benchtop knife sharpness testing device capable of providing repeatable results across various knife sizes and shapes. The project successfully developed and refined a prototype, enhancing industry standards for blade sharpness analysis.

Quantalux Market Analysis for Hybrid Power Storage Skid

This project, which ran in Spring 2021, aimed to evaluate the market potential for a Hybrid Power Storage (HPS) skid designed to enhance biogas utilization at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The project explored customer archetypes, product-market fit, and barriers to adoption while assessing how biogas and battery storage can optimize energy use. Findings supported technology commercialization efforts and informed future prototype development for sustainable power solutions.

Sharable Air Filtration – Virus Mitigation

This project, which ran from Fall 2020 to Fall 2022, aimed to develop a standalone air filtration unit or an integrated HVAC system to filter recirculated air and mitigate the spread of airborne viruses, particularly COVID-19. The project explored nebulized hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet light (UVC) treatment, and advanced testing methodologies, leading to iterative prototype development and refinement of air sanitation techniques.

Smoke Stack CO2 Sequestration for Reuse

This project, which ran from Fall 2017 to Spring 2018, aimed to develop a cost-effective method for capturing and repurposing CO2 emissions from industrial processes. The team successfully explored the production of sodium oxalate from captured CO2 and conducted research into various sequestration practices.

Copper Extraction (SolEx) Experiment

This project, which ran from Fall 2016 to Spring 2018, aimed to refine a copper electrowinning experimental station for safe operation in a controlled lab environment. The project provided valuable insights into electrowinning processes, safety improvements for sulfuric acid handling, and infrastructure modifications necessary for successful implementation in the Unit Operations lab.

Sussex IM Single vs. Multi-Use Food Packaging (Mr. Lid)

This project, which ran from Fall 2019 to Spring 2020, aimed to evaluate the sustainability of single-use versus multi-use food packaging through life cycle assessment and consumer awareness initiatives. The project provided valuable insights into market expansion, product redesign, and education on the environmental benefits of reusable containers

Sussex IM Multi-Use Beverage Container – OneTumbler

This project, which ran from Fall 2021 to Spring 2024, aimed to promote sustainability and consumer awareness by implementing Sussex IM’s OneTumbler product within Michigan Technological University. The project explored residence hall and dining service integration, conducted life cycle assessments comparing OneTumbler to single-use containers, and developed marketing initiatives to encourage adoption.

Versus Bow Development

This project, which ran from Fall 2017 to Spring 2019, aimed to redesign compound bows to improve safety and performance by integrating vacuum pistons into the bow structure. The project focused on reducing injuries caused by traditional high-tension limbs and cables, conducting finite element analysis, prototyping, lab and field testing, and evaluating market feasibility for commercialization.

Yanfeng Ultrasonic Welding Project

This project, which ran from Fall 2016 to Spring 2019, aimed to refine ultrasonic welding techniques, specifically surface welding, to improve accuracy and reliability in plastic component joining. The project successfully advanced testing methodologies, optimized welding parameters using design of experiments (DOE) analysis, and prepared for further research on welding dissimilar materials to enhance process consistency.