February 7, 2018       Southern Utah University

     Dr. Monson, Rachel Radmall and I have successfully fabricated a microfluidic device and synthesized nanoparticles in a reproducible manner.  Starting in September we set out to use the uniqueness of a microfluidic device to our advantage. Nanoparticles have important applications in Medicinal and Surface Chemistry; being able to create them in more efficient ways will improve further research with nanoparticles.

     After using the Polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic device in extensive tests, it has been confirmed using spectroscopic techniques that nanoparticles have been produced consistently and accurately.  This offers several advantages including uniform particle diameters and nanoparticles in higher concentrations. We hope to allow material and medicinal chemists to spend less time synthesizing nanoparticles and focusing on application.  Participating in undergraduate research has given me perspective on what skills are necessary to succeed in chemistry.  The work of chemists is not easy, but their work has brought so much good to mankind.  I have gained appreciation for dedicated researchers and those who fund their experiments.  

     Students who participate in undergraduate research at Southern Utah University's College of Science and Engineering strive for excellence to add their contribution to academia and the scientific community.  I would like to thank the Walter-Maxwell Gibson Research Fellowship, and past students that kept this project going.  

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