Click here to learn about the Research Experiences for Undergraduates 2009 summer program at the University of North Dakota.

The invention, development, and commercialization of transportation fuels, chemicals, and polymers from oil seed crops.

Current research is focused on a comprehensive program to convert crop oils such as soybean, canola, and linseed into fuels and chemicals, through a thermal reaction process known as cracking. Cracked crop oils are purified, separated, and further processed into desired products. Other research looks at developing polymers and fiber-based composites to replace petroleum-derived products.

Research focused on developing technologies to assist in the long-term environmentally acceptable use of coal.

Fundamental research into the partitioning mechanisms of trace metals and the formation of particulate matter during coal combustion. Applied research into emission mitigation strategies for metals, particles, and CO2.

Wind and Hydrogen

One area of current research explores the merger of wind energy, hydrogen production and storage, and fuel cells, to bring emission-free and reliable power towards commercial availability. Studies for improved fuel cell membrane materials are also underway.

Solar

The current research is focused on making solar panels from inexpensive photoconductive biomaterials and electrically conductive nanoparticles. This ultimately seeks to lower the material and installation cost of solar technology.