Chemical Engineering Capstone

2025-2026 projects

Evaluation of Naphtha Hydrotreating High-Pressure Loop Bypass
A technoeconomic analysis of bypassing a naphtha hydrotreater for reformate production.

Nth Solution

Team members: Abdullah Al-Rady, Omar Kamel, Van Tran, Mashroor Rahman, Taha Khimani

Advisor: Giancarlo Dalle Ave
Video Presentation
Off Gas Heat Recovery System in an Electric Arc Furnace
An Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) reduces CO₂ emissions in steelmaking by melting scrap with electricity instead of coal and coke, but significant energy is lost through off-gas. This project develops a heat-recovery system to capture sensible heat from off-gas, improving process and plant efficiency while reducing overall energy losses.
- Team members: Shireen Bhat, Timur Safak, Luke Tavares, Garrick Lo
- Advisor: Giancarlo Dalle Ave
- Collaborator: Hatch Ltd.
Improving Thermal Efficiency of McMaster's Chilled Water System Using Chemical Additives
McMaster University relies on a closed-loop chilled water system to cool most campus buildings, but rising temperatures and campus growth are straining its capacity. This project aims to improve the heat transfer efficiency of the existing chilled water plant without expanding its footprint, helping the university continue to grow while maintaining comfortable spaces.

Team members: Jenae Gordon, Samantha Enns, Angela Xu, Madison Mote, Mikayla Battams

Advisor: Stuart Linley

Collaborator: McMaster University
Video Presentation
MBR with ISBR Mode for Seed Growth and Foam Control
Wastewater plant startup can face issues such as poor effluent quality, foaming, bulking, and membrane fouling in MBR systems. Seeding with biomass is often costly, so controlled loading is used to stabilize biology. This project explores integrating SBR-style operation with Fibracast membranes to improve startup performance and long-term foam control.

Team members: Katherine Janavicius, Emile Gennaro, Sydney Durigon, Laura Khurana, Declan Mooney

Advisor: Prashant Mhaskar

Collaborator: Fibracast
Video Presentation
Improving the Process Design of an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) for Hydrogen Sulfide and Methane Management.
Atlantic Packaging aims to improve reliability and sustainability by ensuring effluent streams meet municipal regulations. This project optimizes the effluent treatment process using new and existing equipment to recommend an engineering solution that mitigates and regulates hydrogen sulfide and methane levels before discharge to the city.

Aqua^5

Team members: Megan Jantzi, Jay Botham, Aleena Joseph, Elliot Evans, Rachel Lyon

Advisor: David Latulippe

Collaborators: Atlantic Packaging, New Forest Paper Mill
Video Presentation
Polysaccharide-Based Compostable Paper Coatings for Zero-Waste Food Packaging
A compostable, high‑performance barrier coating for paper and molded‑fiber food packaging is developed using a modified polysaccharide system with bio‑additives. The project optimizes formulation and coating processes, validates water, grease, and oxygen resistance, and ensures compostability, feasibility, and strong market positioning as a zero‑waste alternative.
- Poly-MANKK
- Team members: Milan Mangat, Anesuishe Mushosho, Katayun Fani, Khushi Narayanan, Nicholas Salama
- Advisor: Li Xi
- Collaborator: Oligomaster Inc.
Design for a Centralized Western Lithium Refinery
A FEL1 project designing a lithium refinery that converts LiCl eluate into 25,000 t/yr of battery‑grade Li₂CO₃. The goal is a technically feasible, safe, and sustainable flowsheet that meets purity and yield targets, defines the viable feed purchase price, and supports an economically and environmentally responsible plant.

Chemineers

Team members: Syed Muhammad Zain Raza Naqvi, Yash Vanama, Ra’ad Awad, Muskaan Opel, Ryan Gimple

Advisor: Jake Nease

Collaborators: Hatch Ltd.
Video Presentation
Sterilization-Resilient Biodegradable Catheter Packaging
The medical industry generates 150 million tons of medical waste annually, with 25% of that coming from packaging. We are presenting an evaluation of biodegradable packaging options that reduce waste and allow for critical sterilization procedures.

Team members: Caleb Garbe, Jake Wilson, Griffin Bull, Quinn Sullivan

Advisor: Li Xi

Collaborator: Oligomaster
Video Presentation
Sequencing Batch Reactor Startup Mode for an MBR System
This project evaluates the feasibility of operating a membrane bioreactor system in batch mode during startup. Temporary batch operation is used to promote controlled biomass development before continuous operation.

Team members: Ameena Khaja Mir, Katrina Kivell, Andre Padeigis, Priscilla Oloruntoba, Anika Preema

Advisors: Charles de Lannoy, Timothy Warner

Collaborator: Fibracast
Video Presentation

2024-2025 projects

2023-2024 projects

Reducing Carbon Emissions in Integrated Steel Plants

Team Members Pierrick Buzangu, Mohammad Fauzaan, Brianne Tulk, and Fedor Vrbaski, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘆 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵, are undertaking a project to address the significant CO2 emissions from the Iron and Steel industry, which constitute around 8% of the world's direct emissions. The project aims to reduce these emissions through end-of-pipe solutions such as carbon recycling and gas separation technology. Utilizing Aspen Plus, simulations are conducted to assess the viability, productivity impacts, and economic feasibility of these solutions.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
AI-Guided Estimation Regarding Enthalpy of Formation for Materials Development Purpose

Team Members Ahmad Abou-Hawach, Hala Alchammah, Riyadh Baksh, and Callie Zhu, under the supervision of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗔𝗜 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮, are working on a project focusing on the enthalpy of formation, a crucial property that signifies the energy required to form a compound. Traditionally determined through experiments, the enthalpy of formation holds significant thermodynamic importance. To improve prediction accuracy for compounds with multiple elements, the project involves implementing and training machine learning models to capture intricate correlations.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Net Zero Vertical Farming

Team Members Caleb Winkelhorst, Chenyao Wang, Xi Wang, Austin Yap, and Alana Siason, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗮𝗷𝗮 𝗚𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗵 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗮, are engaged in a project focusing on addressing pressing global challenges by expanding the food supply and developing innovative farming solutions. With the deadline of 2050 looming for businesses to set economic and social goals, the project aims to explore net-zero vertical farming as a viable solution. Investigating proof-of-concept designs integrated within cooling towers, the project seeks to utilize the untapped resources of space, steam, and heat in collaboration with Copeland. By assessing two related designs within the cooling tower, the team aims to achieve net-zero goals while reducing waste by leveraging waste heat and moisture efficiently. Research into crops suitable for the tower's conditions was conducted, and the proposed designs underwent evaluation based on net-zero emissions and profitability criteria through comprehensive Life Cycle and Net Present Value analyses.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Implementing Hybrid Model Predictive Control with Recurrent Neural Network Models for Enhanced Performance of Water Resource Recovery Facilities

Team Members Lina Hamed, Andrea D'Souza, Sayf Koheeallee, Xiaoxue He, and Anissa Hines, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵, are undertaking a project focusing on implementing Model Predictive Control (MPC) for water resource recovery facilities using Python. The project entails harnessing the hybrid modeling capabilities of Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) within the MPC strategy. The primary objective is to optimize effluent concentrations and operational costs while assessing the feasibility of integrating this advanced control strategy into GPS-X for potential future use.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Project West-Li: Lithium Carbonate Plant Scoping Study

Team Members Adi Gelb, Ashleigh Warren, Connor Black, and Lucas Jarett, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵, are involved in Project West-Li, which focuses on designing a lithium carbonate production plant. The design is based on utilizing a direct lithium extract (DLE) feed stream sourced from underground aquifers. This scoping level study adopts a sustainable approach to process design, incorporating environmentally conscious process technologies chosen for impurity removal, feed strengthening, and the reaction to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Measuring Membrane Integrity and Wear More Reliably

Team Members Erica Lanteigne-Wilkins, Renique Robinson, Owaiz Merchant, and Kashaf Amir, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗮𝗷𝗮 𝗚𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗵 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗙𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁, are working on a project aimed at improving the detection of potential membrane failures in industrial wastewater treatment processes. Fibracast, a global leader in membrane technologies for wastewater treatment, seeks to enhance its turbidity analysis system to address membrane wear and sudden mechanical failures that impact plant efficiency. The project focuses on minimizing noise in readings to ensure accurate turbidity analysis. It explores alternative turbidimeters and machine learning approaches for redesigning Fibracast's system, aiming for compliance within Title 22 specified turbidity ranges 95% of the time and exceeding the limits less than 5% of the time.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Simulated Lab-Scale Prototype for an Ecolene™ Biomethanol Plant

Team Members Heidi Abdilla, Kevork Baghdassarian, Cameron Holmes, Ian Lewis, and Leena Noorbhai, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝗰., are working on constructing a lab-scale prototype for a chemical plant to produce Ecolene™, a carbon-neutral biomethanol. This project involves implementing a patented process developed by Next Methanol Inc. to generate a renewable energy alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The prototype is designed and simulated using real-world kinetics to showcase proof-of-concept to potential investors.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Enhancing Production: Scale-up Process for Bioplastic Bottle Manufacturing in North America

Team Members Ahmad Omar, Jonathan Que, Kajanth Kirupananthan, Salma Abdelrahman, and Sapna Mathew, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, are working on developing and optimizing a scale-up process for manufacturing bioplastic bottles in North America. The project aims to meet the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions while mitigating the environmental impact associated with traditional plastic bottles.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Sustainable Development of Natural Wound Dressing as an Alternative to Traditional Band-Aids

Team Members Vanessa Falcon, George Hashimoto, Zachary Low, Sharmiga Saseekaran, and Katelyn Tam, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, are working on a project aiming to develop an eco-friendly wound dressing as a sustainable alternative to traditional band-aids. Acknowledging the environmental consequences of single-use bandages, the team intends to craft a natural dressing using biodegradable materials sourced from renewable sources. Their goal is to enhance properties like adhesion, breathability, and moisture control for optimal effectiveness and comfort. Laboratory experiments will assess mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial properties, while sustainability considerations, including material sourcing, life cycle assessment, production, and disposal, will be thoroughly examined. The ultimate objective is to minimize environmental impact while ensuring patient safety and comfort, thus promoting sustainable practices in wound care.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Global Scale Climate Change Engineering: An integrated bipolar membrane electrodialysis system for ocean alkalinity enhancement

Team Members: Allison Suichies, Huilin Liu, Jiayue Zhu, Lucas Ning, and Yousef Hassanin, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘀-𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰̧𝗼𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘆, are collaborating with 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻-𝘁𝗼-𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗯 (𝗠𝗰𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆) 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝗯 (𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗼𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗼), for a project focusing on an integrated bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) system for ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE). This innovative approach aims to combat ocean acidification and mitigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems, while also reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The design integrates a BMED system into a full-scale chemical plant that utilizes seawater to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH), subsequently added to the ocean surface to stimulate natural ocean carbon capture. The project entails various design considerations, including the creation of a piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID), estimation of capital/operating costs, and decision-making on unit inclusion, process stream directions, and capacity/performance based on simulations and experimental data. Additionally, potential applications for the hydrochloric acid (HCl) by-product were explored, with the Canadian and US markets analyzed for viability, particularly in industries like vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) production, chlorine production, oil and gas acidizing, and metal acid-washing processes. Further purification steps, using sulfuric acid as the optimal solvent, were deemed necessary for the HCl by-product, necessitating careful consideration for storage and transportation due to its highly corrosive nature.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
odelling of Industrial Nylon-6 (BS700D) Polymerization with Dryer Optimization Case Study

Team Members: Joel Baarbe, Owen Davidson, Melissa Schulze, Sara Razzaghi, Siobhan Jennings, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀, are collaborating with industry partner 𝗡𝘆𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗲 on a project involving the development of a simulation for the entire synthesis process of BS700D, a specific type of nylon 6, using AspenTech software. The project aims to design simplified Excel-based tools utilized in a case study to optimize the drying section of the synthesis process.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Feasibility Study of the Implementation and Optimization of Hydrogen in an Integrated Steel Mill

Team Members Jaan Dhillon, Brayden Bene, Zhizheng (Derek) Zhang, Shalimar Ramos, and Qianyi (Daisy) Yang, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼 𝗜𝗻𝗰., are conducting a capstone project focused on investigating hydrogen as an alternative fuel source and reducing agent at the blast furnace and hot strip mill, with consideration given to different flow rates. The project utilizes a technology decision matrix to select two technologies for simulating hydrogen production: steam-methane reforming (SMR) and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis. Through simulations using Aspen Plus across eight different cases, hydrogen production and integration are evaluated for economic and environmental comparisons with current operations. Recommendations for a new energy strategy will be based on criteria such as CO2 reductions, capital, and operating costs, offering a well-considered approach to optimize operations.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)

2022-2023 projects

The Decarbonization of Steel Production

Our team, consisting of Zainab Ishfaq, Sogand Shookohi, Ola Adebayo, Maya Fik, and Dylan Atreo, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, is collaborating with industry partner 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻, specifically Adam Toma, to explore and engineer an industrial steel manufacturing process that integrates carbon-reduction strategies for an ESG-conscious operation. The project investigates the applicability, feasibility, and implementability of various alternative sustainable fuels such as Green H2, Blue H2, and RNG.

Poster Presentation
Decarbonization of Iron and Steel Using Chemical Looping Combustion and Membrane Separations in the Basic Oxygen Furnace

Our team, consisting of Agustina Gallegos, Katherine Goetz, Myles Harrison, and Jorge Lopez, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 and industry partner 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗟𝘁𝗱., is focused on the decarbonization of the iron and steel industry, which accounts for 9% of global carbon emissions. The project explores end-of-pipe solutions, specifically using chemical looping combustion and membrane separations in the basic oxygen furnace to capture carbon for sequestration and minimize atmospheric emissions.

Video Presentation
The Electrification of Commercial and Industrial Heating Systems

Our team, consisting of Fabiola Gonzalez Rios, Anjuli Joachim, Lauren LaValley, Sara Milla, and Melissa Vu, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀 and industry partner 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 (𝗛𝗧𝗦), is developing an Excel-based energy model and lifecycle cost analysis for the design process of new buildings. The model will show emissions and costing data for both heat pump and boiler systems, providing consultants with insights into the environmental and financial benefits of heat pumps. HTS can use this model to demonstrate to clients how various factors, such as heat pump type, location, and temperature inputs, impact total cost savings and carbon reduction over the equipment’s lifetime.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Design and Implementation of a USP Type-4 Flow Through Cell Device for In Vitro Drug Release Testing

Our team, consisting of Jamie Koscak, Kathy Hua, Jagan Palraj, Krishna Prakash, and Moses Barriffe, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝘂𝗻𝗴 and industry partner 𝗥𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀, is focused on the design and creation of a USP Type-4 Flow-Through Cell Device. This apparatus will pump a continuous simulated medium from a reservoir into a vertical column (the cell) containing the implant/drug test articles for agitated release. The contacted medium will then flow into a sample collector for continuous concentration sampling via HPLC/UV-VIS, enabling increased drug clearance estimation times, determination of kinetic release rates, and utilization of In-Vitro-In-Vivo Correlations (IVIVCs).

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Materials Property Prediction for Accelerated Materials Design

Our team, consisting of Jenna Bullard, Kieran McKenzie, Danny Nguyen, Yusra Rao, and Emma Seese, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀 and industry partner 𝗔𝗜 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮, is focused on studying materials properties for the design of additive manufacturing materials. This project aims to address the challenges posed by small, sparse, noisy, and expensive materials data sets from experimental and computational measurements. We will propose a method for predicting missing materials data, searching for erroneous entries, and comparing the methodology to different approaches to enhance data accuracy in materials design and development.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
An Exploration of Strategies to Regenerate the Activity of Granular Activated Carbon Beds in situ

Our team, consisting of Carmine Spedaliere, Michael Alemayehu, Tanya Hodkinson, James Kraliz, and Ammar Lodhi, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗲 and industry partner 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘆, is focused on improving the environmental and operational safety of Solvay’s Welland site, which produces phosphine and phosphine derivatives for various industries. Currently, the site uses granular activated carbon (GAC) vessels to scrub hazardous chemical contaminants from reactor vent streams. While effective, the disposal of saturated GAC is costly, dangerous for operators, and environmentally damaging. Our project aims to develop a system to either replace the GAC beds entirely or regenerate the activity of the GAC in situ, thereby extending its usable lifetime and reducing the hazards associated with its disposal.

Video Presentation
Design of the best wastewater treatment process to address the capacity and quality challenges of Hamilton’s Wastewater Treatment Plant For 2040

Our team, consisting of Flora Liu, Yue Tan, Karen Yang, Amber Zhang, and Susu Zhang, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶 and industry partner 𝗩𝗲𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀, is focused on upgrading and expanding Hamilton’s Woodward Avenue wastewater treatment plant. By 2040, the plant's capacity needs to increase from 409,000 m³/day to 502,000 m³/day. Without this upgrade, excess wastewater could be discharged into natural water bodies with insufficient treatment, posing risks to the environment, human health, and wildlife. Our project aims to prevent this by ensuring the treatment plant can handle the increased capacity.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Heavy Water Upgrading System Design Project

Team Members Katherine Zapata, Elody Julien, Kerstin Leitzinger, and Yae Ji Kwon, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗞𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹 𝗞𝗵𝗮𝗻 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, are tasked with designing a combined electrolysis and catalytic exchanger, also known as a heavy water upgrading system, to serve a four-unit CANDU nuclear station. The project involves designing two heavy water upgraders—one for the Heat Transport System and one for the Moderator System—both with similar designs but differing capacities. The aim is to enhance the efficiency and functionality of the nuclear station while meeting stringent safety and operational requirements.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Plant Based Adhesive for Safer Wound Dressings

Our team, consisting of Emily Izzotti, Parizad Katila, Lara Musharbash, Afaf Sohail, and Michelle Yip, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗲 and industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, is focused on improving wound-care adhesives for individuals with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a condition characterized by fragile skin. Current adhesives can be irritating and contain harmful substances such as carcinogens. Our project explores the use of plant-derived polysaccharides, such as guar gum, to enhance product sustainability and minimize skin damage upon removal.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Oligomaster Vinyl Recycling: Steps towards a Circular PVC Economy

The project aims to design a PVC recycling plant tailored for recycling PVC roofing membranes, utilizing a process involving selective dissolution with chloroform solvent and precipitation with water as an antisolvent. The resulting pure PVC material is intended to possess physical and mechanical properties comparable to virgin PVC, enabling higher concentrations of recycled material to be integrated into the formulation of new roofing membranes. With team members Phuc Michael Nguyen, Rifat Khan, Kavitha Sivanathan, Zisang Yan, and Alexander Widla, alongside faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗲 and industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, the project strives to address environmental concerns and contribute to sustainable practices in the construction industry.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Wastewater Treatment Plant Design via Simulation and Optimization

Aimen Aleem, Barry Chen, Spencer Cetinic, and Arjunan Rathakrishnan, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗞𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹 𝗞𝗵𝗮𝗻 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛, are undertaking a project to optimize and automate the design process of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant. The project involves implementing GPS-X and metaheuristic optimization algorithms in Python to streamline the current laborious and time-intensive design process at HATCH. By automating parameter generation to meet design objectives, the team aims to significantly reduce the need for manual iterations of simulations while ensuring compliance with effluent metrics.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)
Reduction of CO2 Emissions in an Integrated Steel Works Using Biomass

Team Members Karunpaul Lottey, Seemaab Yousuf, Stephen Gobrial, Thomas Varghese, and Zachary Burley, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝘂𝗻𝗴 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗰., are undertaking a project aimed at reducing CO2 emissions within an integrated steel plant. The project involves utilizing in-house biomass creation through pyrolysis units and investigating the logistics of acquiring material for these units at Stelco. The goal is to implement sustainable practices that mitigate environmental impact while enhancing the efficiency of steel production processes.

Video Presentation (Opens in new window)

2021-2022 projects

Analysis of SUEZ Membrane Systems to Improve Overall Sustainability

Our team, consisting of Ravneet Randhawa, Kara DiPasquale, Nameer Kamal, Chiamaka Maduekwe , Aryan Alidadi-Shamsabadi, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶, is collaborating with industry partner 𝗦𝗨𝗘𝗭. This project is an investigation into the SUEZ membrane water treatment system in Peel Region's Lorne Park drinking water plant. The focus is on determining when to migrate ultrafiltration (UF) membranes to membrane gravity filters (MGF), how MGFs compare to the current media filters being used, and how increasing the longevity of the membranes helps improve its sustainability. This is done by investigating plant data and literature articles, with the overall goal to increase the membrane lifetime, while maintaining permeate quality and quantity.

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Single-Use Technology (SUT) Databse for Sanofi's B100 Facility

Our team, consisting of Brathakine Pusparajah, Annika Yardy, Sarah Saqib, Kevin Gulo, Mohammad Osama Riaz , with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 and industry partner 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗳𝗶.This project entails designing an interactive database on Microsoft Access that will support the manufacturing of vaccines protecting against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis at Sanofi's B100 facility in Toronto. Data pertaining to the single use technologies (SUTs) used in the antigen manufacturing processes (e.g., process-related and vendor-related information) will be organized to streamline access to this critical information.

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Canola Refinery Expansion at Bungee Hamilton

Our team, consisting of Daulet Jailaubekov, Yovana Racic, Adam Best, Riya Suthar, Conor Marko, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘂𝗻𝗴 and industry partner 𝗕𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱. This project focuses on the area of the plant responsible for processing crude canola oil. Canola oil extraction begins from cleaning, flaking, and conditioning the received canola seed. The crude canola oil is sent to refining where it undergoes settling, filtration, chemical refining, degumming and bleaching. Canola oil has a low amount of saturated fat, allowing for higher efficiency within parts like engines compared to alternate biofuels like soyabean oil. These positive environmental attributes, along with fuel efficiency contribute to the increase in Canola oil market demand for non-human consumption. For instance, from 2019 to 2025, the goal of the Canola oil Industry is to increase the global production from 18.7 to 25 million metric tonnes. Therefore, there is a need to expand the canola processing line at Bunge to accommodate for the foreseeable increase in market demand, as Canada exports about 90% of canola oil globally. Additionally, canola oil production has increased by 7.4% in Canada over 2020 partially due to increased oil consumption and global demand. It is anticipated that the process at Bunge will produce 40% more canola oil by the end of the project.

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Dimpled Surface Heat Transfer Unit Design for Automotive Applications

Our team, consisting of Stephanie Kozdras, Hannah Mann, Thomas Baker, Vaniza Arshad, Mahdi Harb, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶 and industry partner 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗮. The recent popularity of electric vehicles has changed the efficiency requirements of engine oil coolers. New heat transfer unit designs and new strategies for research and rapid prototyping these designs are needed to meet the new demands. We have been simulating dimpled heat transfer surfaces to test their performance, with the goal of mitigating parasitic losses to reduce energy consumption. At the same time, maintaining effective heat transfer and turbulent flow are important aspects of this design. We have also been using 3D printing with additive manufacturing to create low cost prototyping equipment, allowing for affordable lab scale testing.

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Valorizing Trace Metals-Bearing Gypsum Residue in a Hydrometalurgical Process

Our team, consisting of Nicole Perna, Alejandra Arauz, Abeera Islam, Chaochen Song, Janany Kugathasan, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀 and industry partner in hydrometallurgical facility. A hydrometallurgical process generates significant quantities of trace metals-bearing gypsum residue, a calcium sulfate material. The objective of this project is to design and evaluate a process  that  will  increase the value of the trace metals-bearing gypsum residue or increase its options for resale. For example, the proposed solution may economically recover the trace metals from the gypsum residue, convert the gypsum residue into a more valuable product, or identify a new application for the gypsum residue. The proposed solution must have a low environmental impact and be aligned with the hydrometallurgical facilities mission to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

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Improving Hydrophobicity of Bioplastics Through Advanced Nano-structure Fabrication

Our team, consisting of Tong Sun, Chuanqi Li, Xiaotian Luo, Luxin Wang, Yifan Wang, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶 and industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿. The objective of the project is to use nanofabrication technology to improve the hydrophobicity of biopolymers. Incorporate the process into the existing facility and develop a processing operating window that will achieve hydrophobicity and economic analysis of the process. Lab work to prove that the chosen method is effective at improving hydrophobicity

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Investigation and Design of the Best Phosphorus and Nitrogen Removal Technologies for WWTP, Hamilton

Our team, consisting of Eugene Wu, Troy Stoner, Stephanie Hassey, Elizabeth Lee, Gurkaran Arora, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶 and industry partner 𝗦𝗨𝗘𝗭. The population of Hamilton is expected to grow to 1 million residents by 2040, putting stress on the Hamilton's Woodward Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). With an expected increasing population, the WWTP needs to be able to accommodate for increased flow rates and loadings, while maintaining safe levels of effluent organics and nutrients. As time goes on, it is expected that the regulatory standard for wastewater treatment will also become stricter, thus indicating that the quality of effluent water must also be improved. By examining the current operating conditions of Hamilton's Woodward Avenue WWTP, it was identified that additional technologies would be required in several parts of the WWTP in order to accommodate for the projected 2040 capacities and effluent concentration targets. Current WWT technologies were investigated and compared to newly developed technologies from SUEZ. Based on the comparison, the best suited technologies were chosen to be implemented in the final plant design.

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Monoclonal Antibodies Aspen Modeling

Team Members Karasira Awi, Tia Ghantous, Amber Monteiro, Archana Sripathy, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗸𝗮𝗿 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘂𝘀. This project is a continuation of a Capstone design started in the 2020/2021 school year for manufacture of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) enabled by Aspen Custom Modeller. The model includes a bioreactor and chromatography for protein A capture, which are typical steps in a mAb production chain. The goal for the project this year was to continue development of this system to allow continuous modelling of both units and further optimize the system to maximize robustness.

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Net Zero Vertical Farming – The Future of Agriculture

Our team, consisting of Tracy Huynh, Hansika Chawla, Muhammad Owais Marwat, Amaara Ranmal, Charles Lawson-Wokoma, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗞𝗶𝗺 𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 and industry partner 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻. The future of agriculture must accommodate a growing urban population with shrinking arable farmlands due to climate change and natural disasters. One solution to these challenges is vertical farming. Our project uses food waste from grocery stores in an anaerobic digester to power a net-zero GHG emissions vertical farm growing lettuce and basil.

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In Situ Self-Clearing Aerator

Integrated aerators for the Fibracast UF Membrane Cassettes have been shown to clog at times during usage for various reasons. Dry solid cake, wastewater debris, mineral fouling block aeration channels overtime reducing membrane performance and efficiency. Our team has delivered a conceptual design for in-situ aerator cleaning process for the Fibracast UF Membrane Cassette in order to maintain effective operation of the membrane system in the bioreactor. This automated cleaning process has the means to determine the extent of fouling and self-cleaning capabilities to reduce MBR downtime and save the manual effort and expense of ex situ cleaning. An economic and productivity analysis is included in our final report to evaluate our designs cost and effectiveness. With team members Jennika Davidson, Runshu Li, Vaishnavie Sripathy, Yichen Zhou, Yingyan Huang, alongside faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗮𝗷𝗮 𝗚𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗵 and industry partner 𝗙𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁.

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Industrialization and Scale-Up of Bioplastics Manufacturing

Samantha Usas, Rica Yacon, Adrian Di Pietro, Avinash Nagendra , under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, are undertaking a project to design a method for the conversion of plastics processing plants to bioplastics processing plants, with a focus on the use of thermoplastic starch and hemp fibers as raw materials.

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Carbon Footprint Reduction in Water Resource Recovery Facilities (WRRF)

Team Members Aly Mahmoud, Nigel Mathias, Xiaonian Wang, Pengfei Fu, Ahmed Ismail, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 and in collaboration with industry partner 𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛. The project began with the identification of the primary sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a wastewater treatment plant through an extensive literature review, wherein each component's contribution to the plant's carbon footprint was analyzed. Subsequently, a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was modeled and optimized based on the gathered research and data. A simulation was constructed, and critical inputs and parameters influencing GHG emissions were identified and managed after validation through comparison with empirical data from Woodward. Lastly, the team formulated an emissions reduction strategy based on the simulation results, aiming to mitigate the carbon footprint of the wastewater treatment plant.

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Development an in-vitro Eye Model

Our team, consisting of Cynthia Pham, Kieran Hampson, Abishake Indran, Long Vo, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 and industry partner 𝗥𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀. Drug products to the eye require vigorous testing with animal studies and clinical trials. However, these studies are costly and timely. Therefore, an initial screening for drug formulation and dosage prior to animal studies is critical for drug formulation and dosage. This project, supervised by Ripple Therapeutics, aims to develop an in vitro eye model for this initial screening step.

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Wastewater Process Optimization

Our team, consisting of Sean Fraser, Ryan Roshan, Gustavo Chen, Cesar Sosa-Miranda, Kevin Esfarayeni, with faculty advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘆 and industry partner 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗠𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗳𝗮𝘀𝗰𝗼. Working with ArcelorMittal Dofasco utilities business unit on primary wastewater treatment, aiming to improve the process and lower costs of dewatering and disposing of by-product sludge from the KOBM gas cleaning process.

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2020-2021 projects

Design of a Continuous BioProcess for Monoclonal Antibody Production.

Team Members Angela Battista, Lauren Weir, Jacqueline Powichrowski, and Natalie Ifraimov, under the guidance of Faculty Advisors 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗿. 𝗚𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗵, are collaborating with industry partner 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘂𝘀 on a project focusing on improving monoclonal antibody production processes. Currently utilizing batch processing, the project aims to transition towards continuous processing, which has shown to be more favorable. Sartorius, as a biopharmaceutical supplier, is leading efforts to enhance their process platform by introducing continuous processes and developing methods for model scaleup. Continuous processing offers increased productivity and lower production costs by parallelizing unit operations and enabling faster and greater output of continuous batches per year. To support model-based approaches for continuous production of monoclonal antibodies, a continuous simulation model, incorporating a bioreactor and multi-column chromatography, has been developed using Aspen Chromatography™. The simulation will generate process specifications necessary to achieve desired scale-up parameters, with support from Sartorius.

Poster Presentation
Transitioning from a Natural Gas to Hydrogen Market

Team Members Sebastian Simic, Lindsay Kuyltjes, Bryan Mitchell, Jordan Sullivan, and Graham Van Every, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, are collaborating on a project aimed at developing a comprehensive hydrogen-fueled production, separation, and electricity generation process that utilizes existing natural gas infrastructure in Canada. The goal is to leverage the support of Jenny Chen and Sebastien Lee from 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 to achieve this objective.

Video Presentation
Hydrogel-Coated Woven Fabric for Oil-Water Separation

Team Members Ana Arežina, Kristen Abels, Patrick Hehl, Maddison Kargus, and Cassandra Stothers, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶, are embarking on a project addressing oil contamination of water, a common issue in industrial process streams, storm drainage, and environmental oil spills. Despite the existence of commercially viable separation products, challenges such as separation time, efficiency, operating costs, and treatment of emulsions persist. The capstone project aims to tackle these challenges using superwetting materials. The objective is to design a guar gum hydrogel-coated woven fabric filter for oil-water separation, building on literature findings, and evaluating its potential for industrial-scale and commercial viability. The project is supported by 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿.

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Process improvements for copper removal in the steel industry

Team Members Kugenthini Tharmakulasekaram, Husain Tapia, Ibrahim Awan, Aayush Pokhrel, and Daniel Pourkhatai, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, are tasked with redesigning and optimizing an existing copper removal process from pickling liquor (HCl) at ArcelorMittal Dofasco to enhance customer throughput and quality key performance indicators (KPIs). The project involves modifications such as process and piping rerouting, informed by lab data and theoretical sizing calculations, aimed at achieving improved efficiency and quality. Support for the project is provided by 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗠𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗳𝗮𝘀𝗰𝗼.

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Implementation of an Emerson Scroll Compressor as an Expander in the Organic Rankine Cycle to Address Accessible & Clean Energy

Team Members Marina Manoraj, Chloe Dawson, Mariam Sidawi, Jillian Ma, and Shane Park, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗠𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗸𝗮𝗿, are working on a project involving the transformation of an Emerson Copeland scroll compressor into an expander for an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) to recover low-grade waste heat. The project explores low global warming potential (GWP) working fluids for the reversed compressor, along with varying fluid properties and system parameters to optimize the system's efficiency. It aims to demonstrate how energy-efficient solutions can be utilized across various applications while addressing the need for energy production from sustainable sources. The project evaluates the design's viability, overall system efficiency, cost, operability, safety, and environmental impact. Support for the project is provided by 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻.

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Next Methanol Inc. Pilot Plant Feasibility Study

Team Members Zaid Alnasseri, Beatrice Benigno, Yang Chen, Selena Fahim, and Eric Pioli, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶, are working on a project centered around Ecolene, a carbon-neutral bio-methanol produced using biomass, water, and surplus energy. Next Methanol Incorporated holds the license to develop a process for Ecolene, aiming to generate renewable energy and reduce fossil fuel emissions. The Capstone project's objective is to conduct a feasibility study encompassing technical, economical, and environmental assessments for the Ecolene plant. Support for the project is provided by 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝗰.

Video Presentation
Implementation of Green Hydrogen Technologies in the Iron Industry

Team Members Aemon Shariq, Phoebe Barrion, Kenna Chai, Andrew Vleming, and Christine Huh, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶, are engaged in a project aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions in steel production, which currently accounts for approximately 8% of total global emissions. The project focuses on integrating green hydrogen technologies into the ironmaking process, specifically through the H2-DRI route. The team is simulating an H-DRI plant to assess its effectiveness in reducing carbon emissions and its long-term feasibility. Support for the project is provided by 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵.

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Design of Packed-Bed Column Heating Configurations

Team Members Kevin Da, Lukas Lenarczyk, Han Lin, and Alexander Sotra, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, have undertaken a project commissioned by 𝗭𝗲𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗰. The task involves designing heating configurations for the regeneration of packed-bed adsorbent columns. This is achieved by generating transient temperature distribution profiles and validating simulation results. The analysis encompasses various column sizes, accompanied by economic evaluations for each heating configuration. The project culminates in presenting a set of recommendations to Zeton Inc. for each column size. 𝗭𝗲𝘁𝗼𝗻 supports this project.

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Air-to-Water Heat Pump

Team Members Joseph Pavkovic, Shrujal Patel, John Liakakos, and Michel Syriani, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶, are engaged in an applied engineering design project aimed at improving the efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in residential and light commercial industries. Approximately 20% of global electricity used in buildings is attributed to heating and cooling. The project focuses on the implementation of heat pumps, which extract heat from the air and transfer it inside or outside the building depending on the season or transfer it to water. While heat pumps have been successful in reducing climate impacts in countries reliant on coal or fossil fuels, Canada's fluctuating annual temperatures present a challenge for consistent year-round operation. The project aims to address this challenge by transforming traditional heat pump technology for modern applications, focusing on utilizing waste heat. The team will conduct research to understand heat pump processes comprehensively and then utilize technical skills to design heat pumps that maintain high efficiency ratings as per standards set by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and the Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 supports this project.

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2019-2020 projects

A Greener Future for Northwestern Ontario; OPG-Atikokan Project

Team Members Conor Marshall, Daniel Khokhlov, Folarin Ologunagba, Ahmed Elmoursi, and Ali Mahmoud, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗺𝘀, are engaged in a project with the 𝗢𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗢𝗣𝗚) thermal power plant in Atikokan. The project aims to investigate new technologies to promote a clean energy future in Ontario by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the Atikokan facility seeks to upgrade its operations to align with OPG's and Ontario's commitment to environmental sustainability. The project involves the selection and evaluation of three distinct but related process technologies: capturing biogenic CO2 from stack gases, producing hydrogen with renewable electricity, and combining these outputs into renewable methanol. The team's responsibilities include examining the feasibility of these upgrades from process, economic, environmental, and safety perspectives.

Poster Presentation
Carbon Capture and Utilization in Steel Process Emissions

Team Members Raisa Hoq, Ezra Widajat, Adam Opolski, Moira Song, and Ace Maizer, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲, are collaborating on a project focused on mitigating CO2 emissions within the steelmaking industry. 𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛 has identified end-of-pipe technologies as a promising solution for this purpose. The project involves investigating the implementation of end-of-pipe separation and utilization technologies. The team's objective is to design and model the process using selected technologies to effectively capture and utilize CO2, thereby mitigating plant-gate CO2 emissions and generating further value-added products within the steelmaking industry.

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Development of Polymer-based Hail-resistant Roofing Materials

Team Members Lisa Tran, Evan Krushelnycky, Ryan Seto, and Jonathan Tong, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶 𝗫𝗶 and industry support from 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, are conducting research on roofing materials and compositions to minimize the severity of hail damage, particularly in regions prone to frequent hailstorms such as "Hail Alley" in Alberta, Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming. Given the significant market demand for hail-resistant roofing, the project's main goal is to develop a production plan focusing on scaling up the existing patented formulation for a client at McMaster University. This initiative aims to enhance the structural integrity of buildings by offering effective protection against hail damage through innovative roofing materials and manufacturing processes.

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Sulphur Dioxide Air Modelling Technique Refinement

Team Members Evan Ubene, Alexander Mckay, Erik Frechette, Tracy Savery, and Kyle Heyblom, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗺𝘀, are working on a project for a lubricants refinery company located in Ontario, which is one of the largest refineries of its kind in Canada and the largest White Oil producer globally. The plant produces various lubricant base oils, including specialty food-grade White Oils and high-viscosity index Group 3+ base oils. As part of its environmental responsibility, the company needs to monitor sulfur dioxide emissions. The main objective of this project is to develop a real-time system that utilizes an atmospheric air dispersion model to calculate point of impingement (POI) concentrations caused by plant emission sources as they occur. This system will enhance the company's ability to monitor and manage emissions effectively in real-time.

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Design and Evaluation of a Product Transfer Process to Improve Filtration Performance

Team Members Melissa Cusack Striepe, Matt Csordas, Christina Hassey, Natasha Reis-Murray, and Noelle Wilton, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗲, are working on a project focused on improving the manufacturing process of pharmaceutical products. Due to stringent regulatory constraints, processes like filtration are crucial for removing contaminants and ensuring product quality. However, fluctuations in upstream processes can compromise filter integrity, leading to costly investigations and potential product loss. The project aims to address these challenges at a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility by evaluating the existing product transfer line and designing an improved system. This redesign will incorporate enhanced process control, new instrumentation, and alternative modes of operation to optimize efficiency and maintain product quality.

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Waste-to-Energy: Closed-Loop Resource Production

Team Members Janine Hidalgo, Henry Zihan Zhou, Arujala Thavendrarasa, Nelson Mok, and Ratul Matin, under the guidance of Faculty Advisor 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗿 𝗘𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗶, are collaborating on a project proposed by 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗮. The project focuses on developing a feasible closed-loop system to create value from food waste produced by McMaster University. Currently, Emerson offers Grind2Energy, a system that processes food waste into slurry for storage in on-site tanks. When the storage tank reaches capacity, the slurry is transported to a local anaerobic digestion (AD) facility for conversion into various products. However, Emerson's involvement ends at the AD facility. The project aims to extend this process into a closed-loop system that converts food waste into resources beneficial to McMaster University. Through this initiative, the team seeks to create a sustainable solution for food waste management while generating value for the university.

Video Presentation

CHEM 4W06: Chemical plant design and capstone project

Evaluation of Naphtha Hydrotreating High-Pressure Loop Bypass

Off Gas Heat Recovery System in an Electric Arc Furnace

Improving Thermal Efficiency of McMaster's Chilled Water System Using Chemical Additives

MBR with ISBR Mode for Seed Growth and Foam Control

Improving the Process Design of an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) for Hydrogen Sulfide and Methane Management.

Polysaccharide-Based Compostable Paper Coatings for Zero-Waste Food Packaging

Design for a Centralized Western Lithium Refinery

Sterilization-Resilient Biodegradable Catheter Packaging

Sequencing Batch Reactor Startup Mode for an MBR System

Insulating foam control for production of insulated panels for industrial buildings

Insulating Foam Control for Production of Insulated Panels for Industrial Buildings

Nickel-Sulphate Hexahydrate Refinery Study

McMaster Central Plant Decarbonization Strategy

McMaster Central Plant Decarbonization Strategy

Utilizing Recycled PLA in Formulating Bioplastics for a Circular Material Economy

Assessing Effects of Distinct Additives on Recycled PLA/rPET Blend for Beverage Bottle Production

Designing a Decentralized Pathway for Micronizing and Pelletizing Hemp with Biopolymer Resin

Mini-MBR: A Membrane Bioreactor on the Go

Mini MBR On the Go

Steel 2050: Designing the Future of Steel Manufacturing

Global Scale Climate Change Engineering: Hydrogen electrosynthesis coupled to bipolar membrane electrodialysis for ocean alkalinization enhancement

Global Scale Climate Change Engineering: Hydrogen Electrosynthesis Coupled to Bipolar Membrane Electrodialysis for Ocean Alkalinization Enhancement

Valorization of Basic Oxygen Furnace Gas

Reducing Carbon Emissions in Integrated Steel Plants

AI-Guided Estimation Regarding Enthalpy of Formation for Materials Development Purpose

Net Zero Vertical Farming

Implementing Hybrid Model Predictive Control with Recurrent Neural Network Models for Enhanced Performance of Water Resource Recovery Facilities

Project West-Li: Lithium Carbonate Plant Scoping Study

Measuring Membrane Integrity and Wear More Reliably

Simulated Lab-Scale Prototype for an Ecolene™ Biomethanol Plant

Enhancing Production: Scale-up Process for Bioplastic Bottle Manufacturing in North America

Sustainable Development of Natural Wound Dressing as an Alternative to Traditional Band-Aids

Global Scale Climate Change Engineering: An integrated bipolar membrane electrodialysis system for ocean alkalinity enhancement

odelling of Industrial Nylon-6 (BS700D) Polymerization with Dryer Optimization Case Study

Feasibility Study of the Implementation and Optimization of Hydrogen in an Integrated Steel Mill

The Decarbonization of Steel Production

Decarbonization of Iron and Steel Using Chemical Looping Combustion and Membrane Separations in the Basic Oxygen Furnace

The Electrification of Commercial and Industrial Heating Systems

Design and Implementation of a USP Type-4 Flow Through Cell Device for In Vitro Drug Release Testing

Materials Property Prediction for Accelerated Materials Design

An Exploration of Strategies to Regenerate the Activity of Granular Activated Carbon Beds in situ

Design of the best wastewater treatment process to address the capacity and quality challenges of Hamilton’s Wastewater Treatment Plant For 2040

Heavy Water Upgrading System Design Project

Plant Based Adhesive for Safer Wound Dressings

Oligomaster Vinyl Recycling: Steps towards a Circular PVC Economy

Wastewater Treatment Plant Design via Simulation and Optimization

Reduction of CO2 Emissions in an Integrated Steel Works Using Biomass

Analysis of SUEZ Membrane Systems to Improve Overall Sustainability

Single-Use Technology (SUT) Databse for Sanofi's B100 Facility

Canola Refinery Expansion at Bungee Hamilton

Dimpled Surface Heat Transfer Unit Design for Automotive Applications

Valorizing Trace Metals-Bearing Gypsum Residue in a Hydrometalurgical Process

Improving Hydrophobicity of Bioplastics Through Advanced Nano-structure Fabrication

Investigation and Design of the Best Phosphorus and Nitrogen Removal Technologies for WWTP, Hamilton

Monoclonal Antibodies Aspen Modeling

Net Zero Vertical Farming – The Future of Agriculture

In Situ Self-Clearing Aerator

Industrialization and Scale-Up of Bioplastics Manufacturing

Carbon Footprint Reduction in Water Resource Recovery Facilities (WRRF)

Development an in-vitro Eye Model

Wastewater Process Optimization

Design of a Continuous BioProcess for Monoclonal Antibody Production.

Transitioning from a Natural Gas to Hydrogen Market

Hydrogel-Coated Woven Fabric for Oil-Water Separation

Process improvements for copper removal in the steel industry

Implementation of an Emerson Scroll Compressor as an Expander in the Organic Rankine Cycle to Address Accessible & Clean Energy

Next Methanol Inc. Pilot Plant Feasibility Study

Implementation of Green Hydrogen Technologies in the Iron Industry

Design of Packed-Bed Column Heating Configurations

Air-to-Water Heat Pump

A Greener Future for Northwestern Ontario; OPG-Atikokan Project

Carbon Capture and Utilization in Steel Process Emissions

Development of Polymer-based Hail-resistant Roofing Materials

Sulphur Dioxide Air Modelling Technique Refinement

Design and Evaluation of a Product Transfer Process to Improve Filtration Performance

Waste-to-Energy: Closed-Loop Resource Production