Faculty

ABSTRACT:  In this presentation we give an overview of recent applications in Process Systems Engineering of new discrete and continuous optimization techniques. We first provide a brief overview of logic-based optimization methods, emphasizing the theoretical relation of the continuous relaxations between mixed-integer programming and generalized disjunctive programming for nonconvex optimization problems.

ABSTRACT:  Plastic foams, as engineering materials, are widely used in variety of industrial sectors and represent an extraordinary class of materials. Foaming in polymers involves delicate scientific mechanisms and unique morphology transformations. This work explores the influence of rheological properties on polymer foam development in non-pressurized systems.

ABSTRACT:  Arguably, electric and hybrid electric vehicles are the new frontiers for lithium batteries. As a new market it is distinctly different from mass produced microelectronics, not only in the energy per battery unit but also in the power performance requirements. Especially the required charging rates during deceleration and emergency charging, as well as, the discharge rates during startup from standstill are exciting challenges.

ABSTRACT:  Engineered bacteria have the potential to overcome the limitations that cause common cancer therapies to fail. Synthetic biology is playing a critical role in the creation of these therapies. We have shown that bacteria, specifically Salmonella, have three main qualities that enable them to overcome the limitations of chemotherapy. Bacteria 1) preferentially target tumors, 2) penetrate tissue, and 3) can kill non-mitotic cells.