Sustainable Technologies
Alternative fuels and renewable energy
With over 15 years experience in development of applications of the use of alternative fuels, we are prepared to help you evaluate the opportunities to engage in these novel resources to support your sustainability goals. Our team has evaluated the use of steam reforming to produce hydrogen, bioprocesses that produce bioethanol and biobutanol through fermentation, emissions from biodiesel, and technologies for carbon capture. We use basic principles of chemical engineering to evaluate proposed technologies, explore thermodynamic effectiveness, and evaluate efficiency and effectiveness. We can review your technology to provide guidance on process improvements that will enhance sustainability while also increasing the economic advantage.
Using life cycle to promote process improvement
People, prosperity, and the planet. As engineers, we understand the challenges of creating energy in a usable format to meet the expectations of the consumer, the challenges of producing food and its associated supply chain. Working from a life cycle perspective, we describe the systems-level interactions critical in today's society. Awareness of climate change, adaptation, and resiliency allow us to understand the value of technology in meeting your needs and allow us to assist you in promoting clean and sustainable technologies, regardless of your audience.
The opportunity of additive manufacturing
Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is a relatively new technology that allows parts to be designed first in the computer and then printed from metal, ceramic, or plastic powder (or other variations of this concept). This technology allows for the precise design of a material, providing products with unique shapes and applications. This technology also changes material usage characteristics, impacting the economic and environmental footprint of the printed material. The ability to control density, including the porosity of the material, may also provide unique chemical attributes to be explored. We can analyze your product and process needs to determine if 3D printing can provide you a competitive advantage and guide you in the development of your additive manufacturing capabilities.