Chemical engineering professor Kim receives NSF award

Chemical engineering professor Kim receives NSF award

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | [email protected]

Dr. Seokjhin Kim, associate professor in the School of Chemical Engineering at Oklahoma State University, has received a National Science Foundationaward totaling $299,000 to fund his research on designing pore-engineered membranesusing a novel approach that allows dynamic changes to the membrane structure during gas separation testing.

"Membranes are a cost-effective and efficient technology for chemical separations that benefit the various industries that require separation, purification and filtration processes," Kim said. "They are materials that filter molecules based on size, charge and other characteristics."

Kim's research was inspired by the challenges in membrane performance due to defects and the need for precise pore size control. With the NSF award, Kim will work on designing new membrane materials via an in situ atomic layer deposition process for improved separations.

"This research project aims to develop membranes for difficult gas separations, specifically for olefin and paraffin separations," Kim said. "This project will also develop pore-engineered membranes using a novel approach that allows dynamic changes to the membrane structure during gas separation testing."

The impact of this research has the potential to locally drive innovation in industries such as oil and gas, environmental protection, and biotechnology. Globally, it can lead to more cost-effective chemical separation with broad applications in health care and energy. 

"The research will be shared through conferences, journals and outreach, promoting further innovation and collaboration in the field," Kim said. 

In upcoming semesters, Kim will incorporate his research for instructional purposes in his elective course by adding a membrane separation project to his curriculum.

"Students will analyze how these materials can be engineered to enhance the gas separation process, providing them with hands-on experience applying the research to real-world challenges," Kim said. 

Learn more about Kim and his research by visiting his webpage.

Story By: Natalie Henderson | Prospective Student Services Coordinator | [email protected]