SHOWCASE FOR ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTING INNOVATION BY WVU FACULTY
Thursday, September 6, 2012 Ruby Grand Hall Erickson Alumni Center
Welcome,
The WVU Office of Research and Economic Development, through the support provided by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, has launched an initiative to encourage innovation and commercialization through research. The initiative, titled LIINC (Linking Innovation, Industry and Commercialization), is designed to bring faculty expertise and talent to the attention of our industry partners through networking events. This particular event focuses on energy and environmental research. To our industry partners, we greatly appreciate your attendance at this event and we hope you will take this opportunity to learn about the research taking place at WVU. To facilitate new partnerships and future collaboration, this booklet contains brief abstracts of our faculty’s research activities. We strongly encourage you to contact them to learn about and discuss their research in greater detail. On behalf of our faculty, we thank you for your participation and we hope you will see us as trusted partners for continued collaboration.
Dr. Fred King Interim Vice President for Research
Name Badge Key Blue: Industry Gold: WVU Blue/Gold: WVU Presenter 2
ATTENDING INDUSTRIES Acacia Environmental Group Acacia Environmental Group LLC provides consulting services and guidance on a wide range of environmental issues, providing permitting, regulatory compliance, strategic environmental planning and specialized environmental compliance services. AEG provides services to clients that include not only manufacturing and industrial businesses, but also chemical and natural resources companies, as well as trade organizations and state and local governments.
Aither Chemicals Aither Chemicals is building next generation chemical plants based upon a proven, proprietary, patent-pending chemical process that converts a natural gas feedstock (ethane) into higher value chemical products (petrochemicals) in a cost effective manner. Aither’s manufacturing process is the lowest cost production method to make petrochemicals. Using Aither’s proprietary process, our facilities will have the following advantages over traditional ethane cracking technologies: 1) Lower capital cost; 2) Lower operating cost; 3) Shorter time to commercial operations; 4) Lower energy input; 5) Lower CO2 output; 6) Smaller plant footprint; and 7) Simpler process to produce higher-value products.
Allegheny Science & Technology Allegheny provides Management and Technology solutions for federal, state, and local governments, federal civilian agencies, and commercial clients. We work in areas such as project management, financial analysis, software and systems engineering, as well as training and simulation, and specialized scientific, engineering, and technical support.
Allegheny Wood Products With over 25 professional foresters, AWP is committed to the wise management and efficient utilization of forests to meet the needs of the present generation while also assuring the availability of forests for future generations. Scientifically based silvicultural techniques integrate natural reforestation, growing, nurturing and harvesting trees with the conservation of soil, air and water quality, plant and animal diversity, recreation and aesthetics.
American Electric Power AEP ranks among the nation's largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation's largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765 kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. 3
American Refining Group Our refinery has a rated capacity of 10,000 barrels per day and processes 100% Pennsylvania Grade Crude purchased from sources in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and West Virginia. ARG stocks are converted into high quality waxes, lubricant base oils, gasoline and fuels, as well as a wide variety of specialty products. ARG’s state-of-the-art blending and packaging facilities have the capability of producing a full spectrum of finished lubricant products which can be delivered in bulk by rail and truck, and are available in a broad range of package sizes.
Auburn Research & Technology Foundation The aim of Auburn Research and Technology Foundation is to support the Auburn University research and economic development mission by translating applied research into new business ventures, nurturing these businesses, and providing an entrepreneurial business environment for them to prosper.
Chesapeake Energy Corporation Chesapeake Energy Corporation is the second-largest producer of natural gas, a Top 15 producer of oil and natural gas liquids and the most active driller of new wells in the U.S. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the company's operations are focused on discovering and developing unconventional natural gas and oil fields onshore in the U.S. Chesapeake owns leading positions in the Marcellus, Haynesville, Bossier, and Barnett natural gas shale plays and in the Eagle Ford, Utica, Mississippi Lime, Granite Wash, Cleveland, Tonkawa, Niobrara, Bone Spring, Avalon, Wolfcamp and Wolfberry unconventional liquids plays.
CONSOL Energy CONSOL Energy, a publicly owned Pittsburgh-based producer of coal and natural gas, is one of the leading diversified energy companies in the United States of America. Our premium Appalachian coals are sold worldwide to electricity generators and steelmakers, and our Natural Gas Division has grown from a pure-play coalbed methane producer to a full-fledged exploration and production operation. We are a leading producer in the Marcellus Shale and we conduct an active exploration program in the Utica Shale.
Council of Industrial Boiler Owners CIBO is a broad-based trade association of industrial boiler owners, architect-engineers, universities & related equipment manufacturers representing 20 major industrial sectors. CIBO actively promotes energy and environmental equipment, technology, operations & policies and laws & regulations affecting industrial energy facilities.
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Duquesne Light Company Duquesne Light Company is a leader in the transmission and distribution of electric energy, offering superior customer service and reliability to more than half a million customers in southwestern Pennsylvania.
FirstEnergy FirstEnergy’s 10 regulated distribution companies comprise one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, based on serving 6 million customers in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Stretching from the Ohio-Indiana border to the New Jersey shore, the companies operate a vast infrastructure of more than 194,000 miles of distribution lines and are dedicated to providing customers with safe, reliable and responsive service. FirstEnergy’s diverse generating fleet produces approximately 100 million megawatt-hours of electricity annually from a fleet of non-emitting nuclear, scrubbed coal, natural gas, and pumped-storage hydro plants.
Geosyntec Consultants Geosyntec is a specialized consulting and engineering firm that works with private and public sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. We deliver solutions through Geosyntec and our wholly-owned, specialty affiliates (MMI Engineering, SiREM, and GSM Consultancy), with a combined staff exceeding 800 engineers, scientists, and related technical and project support personnel.
Hamer Pellet Fuel Company Pellet fuel is a renewable, clean-burning and cost stable home heating alternative currently used throughout North America. Our pellet fuel is made from clean sawdust, much of which comes from our own lumber operations in the heart of the Appalachian Region of the United States in West Virginia. Hamer Pellet Fuel is family-owned and is the oldest residential pellet manufacturer operating in the Eastern United States. The Hamers have a reputation for manufacturing quality products for three generations in West Virginia.
Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC) The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission is responsible for developing, establishing, and overseeing the implementation of a public policy agenda for the state's four-year colleges and universities. It is charged with oversight of higher education institutions to ensure they are accomplishing their missions and implementing the provisions set by state statute.
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Hopewell Ventures Hopewell Ventures provides equity capital and strategic expertise to high-growth businesses, primarily in the Midwest. The principals have more than 80 years of experience investing in and growing Midwestern companies. Hopewell’s investment focus is aligned with the opportunities the Midwest provides: growth-oriented ventures at various stages of development across a broad range of industries. From state-of-the-art technology and life-sciences to traditional manufacturing and consumer products, Hopewell works with portfolio companies to help them maximize opportunities.
Innovation Management Technology Services (IMTS) Innovative Management & Technology Services, LLC (IMTS) is a small disadvantaged business and trusted partner to the federal government and world-class integrators. We maintain an active Top Secret Facility Clearance, and are comprised of seasoned professionals - scientists, technologists, engineers, and business analysts - that leverage extensive industry experiences to deliver enterprise-level support in the areas of Biometric System Support, Program Management Support, Science & Technology Support, and IT Infrastructure Support.
Jackson Kelly PLLC Offering business and corporate legal services, from offices in West Virginia, Colorado, Kentucky, and the District of Columbia. The Firm has been home to Governors and business leaders, judges and public servants, great lawyers and community leaders. It has helped form and served many of the state’s leading businesses and been a driving force in industries as diverse as coal, chemical, biotechnology, media and banking.
KeyLogic KeyLogic is an information technology consultant that offers IT systems consulting, knowledge management consulting, program management, system engineering and development, and intelligence community support.
Kinetic Star Kinetic Star coordinates the origination, development, and finance of methanebased alternative and renewable energy projects including landfill gas, anaerobic digester gas, and coal mine methane. Kinetic Star optimizes and monetizes the carbon and renewable energy value associated with projects in the rapidly emerging fields of renewable energy and carbon credits.
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Lignetics With more than 30 years in the wood pellet industry, Lignetics is one of the founding pioneers of manufacturing premium wood pellets and Pres-to-Logs® (presto logs) fire logs for home heating. We recognize the need for a domestic source of heating fuel and believe that Lignetics wood pellets and Pres-to-Logs® fire log fuel is the best source available today. Lignetics wood pellets and fire logs are a carbon neutral form of biomass fuel. Our products burn hot enough to reduce emissions to 1.2 grams per hour when burned in an EPAcertified wood burning appliance. This falls well below the nationwide EPA regulation of less than 7.5 grams per hour and makes our wood pellets and fire logs the cleanest and most efficient forms of biomass fuel available today.
Marcellus Shale Coalition Founded in 2008, the Marcellus Shale Coalition (MSC) works with exploration and production, midstream, and supply chain partners in the Appalachian Basin and across the country to address issues regarding the production of clean, job-creating, American natural gas from the Marcellus and Utica Shale plays. We provide in-depth information to policymakers, regulators, media, and other public stakeholders on the positive impacts responsible natural gas production is having on families, businesses, and communities across the region.
MATRIC The Mid-Atlantic Technology, Research and Innovation Center (MATRIC) is an independent, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) corporation headquartered in West Virginia. World-class scientists in the areas of chemical and environmental technologies and advanced software systems partner with higher education, industry, and government to conduct market-driven research and development and to commercialize resulting products and services. MATRIC also offers R&D and technical services of a commercial nature through its wholly owned for-profit subsidiary, Mid-Atlantic Commercial Research (MCR).
National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) NETL supports DOE’s mission to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States. NETL implements a broad spectrum of energy and environmental research and development (R&D) programs that will return benefits for generations to come: (1) Enabling domestic coal, natural gas, and oil to economically power our Nation’s homes, industries, businesses, and transportation, (2) While protecting our environment and enhancing our energy independence.
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Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP With a strong East Coast presence, Nelson Mullins has grown into a national firm with a reputation for meeting the complex litigation, corporate, securities, finance, intellectual property, employment, government relations, regulatory, and other needs of clients ranging from private individuals to large businesses, including many publicly held companies.
Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse The Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse (PLSG) provides capital investments and customized company formation and business growth services to our region’s life sciences enterprises. We support biosciences companies with promising innovations in the following concentrations: Biotechnology Tools, Diagnostics, Healthcare IT, Medical Devices and Therapeutics.
Potesta & Associates, Inc. Potesta & Associates, Inc. (POTESTA) was founded in 1997 to provide quality engineering and environmental consulting services to a wide variety of private and public clients in West Virginia and the eastern United States. We have now grown to a large and very diverse staff that includes civil, geotechnical, environmental, mining and chemical engineers, Licensed Remediation Specialists, site designers, surveyors, CADD designers, biologists, toxicologists, ecologists, geologists, hydrogeologists, foresters, stream restoration design specialists, occupational safety and health specialists, field technicians, a land management team and support personnel.
PPG Industries PPG Industries is a leader in its markets; is a streamlined, efficient manufacturer; and operates on the leading edge of new technologies and solutions. It is our vision to continue being the world’s leading coatings and specialty products and services company, serving customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. PPG has manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates in more than 60 countries around the globe.
Protea Biosciences Protea is a leader in the emerging field of Bioanalytics. The company develops new technology for the identification, characterization, and quantitation of biologically-important molecules for basic research, pharmaceutical development, and diagnostic applications. We develop new bioanalytical methods that enable the direct analysis of proteins and other biomolecules, and apply our capabilities to support your laboratory's research objectives.
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Steptoe & Johnson Steptoe & Johnson is a business-focused firm with particular strengths in energy, labor, employment, and litigation. For nearly a century, Steptoe & Johnson has demonstrated its commitment to quality, devoting personal attention, experience, skill, and resources to client-focused service.
TechConnect TechConnectWV is a coalition of professionals dedicated to growing and diversifying West Virginia’s economy by advancing technology-based economic development (TBED). We serve mainly as facilitators, enhancing awareness, increasing collaboration, and raising the discussion of important issues to spur technology development and commercialization in West Virginia.
University Energy Partnership The University Energy Partnership was founded jointly in 2010 by five major research universities: Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State University, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia University. Building on their regional university alliance with the U.S. Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory, these five research university partners are working together to address the nation’s energy transition challenge by: 1) Facilitating collaborative work; 2) Promoting the growth of the region’s research portfolio; 3) Providing education and workforce development pathways into the broader energy sector; 4) Commercializing technological innovations; 5) Contributing to the growth of a strong, export-focused regional energy industry sector and its local supply chain; and 6) Expanding economic opportunity throughout the sector.
URS Corporation The URS Corporation offers a full range of program management; planning, design and engineering; systems engineering and technical assistance; construction and construction management; operations and maintenance; and decommissioning and closure services for federal, oil and gas, infrastructure, power, and industrial projects and programs.
US Department of Agriculture Forest Service Established in 1905, the Forest Service is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Forest Service manages public lands in national forests and grasslands. Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief of the Forest Service, summed up the mission of the Forest Service— "to provide the greatest amount of good for the greatest amount of people in the long run." National forests and grasslands encompass 193 million acres of land, which is an area equivalent to the size of Texas.
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WV Coal Association Located in Charleston, W.Va., the West Virginia Coal Association is a trade association representing more than 90 percent of the state's underground and surface coal mine production. Its purpose is to have a unified voice representing the state's coal industry as well as increase emphasis on coal as a reliable energy source to help the nation achieve energy independence.
West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s mission is to promote a healthy environment. The WVDEP’s role is to protect the environment while leaving room for a sustainable industry base that leads to a sustainable future for communities throughout West Virginia. Such a task requires careful balance between protecting air, land, and water, and regulating industry, permitting extraction of natural resources, and protecting the public from hazards of pollution.
West Virginia Development Office The West Virginia Development Office’s role is to: support existing businesses in the expansion and retention of their operations; attract new businesses to locate in the state; generate new leads and prospects of potential investors; diversify West Virginia’s economy by marketing to targeted industries; provide comprehensive development assistance; provide research, planning and technical support; work with local governments and economic developers to improve the quality of life in communities; and market West Virginia at primary and secondary target industry trade shows.
WV Jobs Investment Trust (JIT) The West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust is a leading venture capital firm made up of partners with extensive management, operations and technology experience and focused on turning the innovation of new ideas into successful world-class companies. Since 1992, the JIT has been an active investor and valued partner to exceptional entrepreneurs on the leading edge of industry.
WV Regional Technology Park The West Virginia Regional Technology Park (Tech Park) in South Charleston is the newest research, education and technology campus in West Virginia’s higher education system. The facility has a more than 60-year history of research and technological contributions, having been established by Dow Chemicalpredecessor Union Carbide Corporation as the company’s primary research center in 1949. Now operated by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, the Tech Park adds significant capacity to the state’s academic, research and economic development missions.
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The following companies expressed interest, but regrettably were unable to attend: ABB, Inc.; AFS Energy Systems, Inc.; Appalachian Power; Ardagh Group; Bowles Rice McDavid Graff & Love, PLLC; Clean Fuels Ohio; Dominion Energy; Geostellar; Global Environment Facility; Greene Team Pellet Fuel Co.; GreenFire Energy; I-79 Development Council; Industrial Timer and Lumber; Klockner Pentaplast; Marshall, Miller & Associates; PHG Energy, LLC; Recycled Energy Development; Renewable Oil International; Replex; Rice Energy; Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meahger Flom LLP; Terra Green Energy; Westinghouse Electric Co.; WV Angel Fund; WV Division of Energy
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FACULTY RESEARCH Understanding Forest Ecosystems to Improve Resource Use Forests are complex, long-lived ecosystems which provide many important services and products. By better understanding how ecosystems work, we can better manage them. My research focuses on forested watersheds, soil science, and restoration of disturbed lands to productive forestland. Mary Beth Adams USDA Forest Service 304-293-7603 MaryBeth.Adams@mail.wvu.edu
Use of Poultry-Litter Biochar as Fertilizer Products The Environmental Research Center is developing a comprehensive strategy to change poultry litter from an environmental liability into an economic and ecological asset. Poultry litter is burned under low oxygen conditions thereby producing energy for heating poultry houses and converting the remaining “waste material� into biochar. When applied to soil, biochar has the means to sequester carbon while concurrently improving soil fertility and contributing to heavy metal remediation (for reclaiming mine land sites for example). We are developing designer mixtures and products comprised of biochar and other materials for fertilizer and reclamation purposes. James T. Anderson Environmental Research Center (Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design) 304-293-3825 jim.anderson@mail.wvu.edu
Control Systems for Energy Conversion and Conservation My current project is to develop advanced control systems for solid oxide fuel cell/gas turbine electric generators, which can convert fuel to electricity at >60% efficiency. I am interested in similar controls for Cogeneration and Trigeneration systems, including industrial and commercial building applications. I have a strong background in industrial energy conservation and am interested in advanced process control 12
systems for energy management, waste minimization and productivity improvement. I am also interested in industrial automation, robotics and machine vision. Larry Banta Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3375 Larry.Banta@mail.wvu.edu
Sedimentary Geology, Low-temperature Geochemistry, Geomicrobiology I am interested in deciphering past environments (including water chemistry, temperature, and depth), past weather and climate, and past life from ancient sedimentary rocks. I also study modern environments and fluid flow through modern and ancient rocks and sediments. These studies have implications for petroleum systems, global warming, acid mine drainage, and life in extreme environments and on Mars. Kathleen Benison Geology & Geography 304-293-9445 kcbenison@mail.wvu.edu
Wellbore Stability and Shale Characterization Oil and gas drilling operations have many challenges and the research here is focused on the stability of horizontal wells and the impact of overburden stress as well as the fluids used in the process. The goal is to eliminate borehole stability problems that may cause enlargement or reduction, stuck pipe or even a complete loss of the wellbore. Further, the study investigates the interaction between shale formations; and different drilling fluids can result in reactions leading to instability due to the nature of clays. H. Ilkin Bilgesu Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering 304-293-3966 ilkin.bilgesu@mail.wvu.edu
Energy, Natural Resource, and Environmental Economics My research focuses primarily on the intersection between energy economics, environmental economics, energy policy, and behavioral 13
economics. One of my current projects aims to model the relative convergence of U.S. state-level carbon dioxide emissions over the past forty years. I am exploring the clustering of state-level emissions including the drivers of these emissions. A completed paper analyzed the spatial effects of economic growth on state-level carbon dioxide emissions. Currently, I am developing a model to analyze the link between technology, energy, the environment, and the economy. I will use this model to explore how policies in the Shangxi Province of China will affect this link -- this analysis will be contrasted to policies in the state of West Virginia. From a policy perspective this research is of interest because of the contrasting governance structures between two energy resource rich regions. J. Wesley Burnett Resource Management 304-293-5639 jwburnett@mail.wvu.edu
Energy and Environmental Industrial Partnering The Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions has a variety of diverse energy research programs that provide applied engineering solutions for its industrial partners. Current topics include natural gas utilization efforts, focusing on development of engine and vehicle alternative fuel system designs and EPA demonstration and notification for the Clean Alternative Fuel Vehicle and Engine Conversions program. The Center has a comprehensive array of facilities for engine and vehicle performance and emissions research, and provides in-house development and operation of a variety of customized measurement systems and software for data acquisition and control. Although the Center is operated within an academic institution, it provides a business-like atmosphere in meeting project deadlines, competitive to other for-profit, private laboratories, while adding value to the project in the form of multifaceted approaches due to the availability of accomplished faculty members, fulltime staff and students. Dan Carder Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-288-7917 Daniel.Carder@mail.wvu.edu
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Unconventional Reservoir Lithofacies Modeling Two critical factors for unconventional shale-gas and oil-shale reservoirs are units amenable to hydrologic fracture stimulation and the presence of high free and adsorbed gas content. Geostatistical techniques (Artificial neural networks) are developed to create 3-D mudrock lithofacies models of mineral composition, rock geomechanical properties and TOC content. Timothy R. Carr Geology & Geography 304-293-9660 tim.carr@mail.wvu.edu
On-Demand Oxide Nanoelectronics and Nanophotonics Control over electronic confinement in the solid state is increasingly challenging as the dimensionality and size scale are reduced. By scanning a biased conducting atomic force microscope (AFM) tip along a programmed trajectory at room temperature, we can reversibly control in nanoscale the metal-insulator transition at the interface of an oxide heterostructure formed from LaAlO3 and SrTiO3. This technique has lead to a variety of rewritable electronic structures with the critical dimensions only a few nanometer, such as single electron transistor, diode and photodetector. Hybrid systems combining the oxide interfaces with semiconductors and nitrides will further extend the opportunities in nanophotonics and nanoplasmonics. Please find a few related references here: https:// dl.dropbox.com/u/10307983/LAOSTO%20Refs.pdf Cheng Cen Physics & Astronomy 304-293-4730 chcen@mail.wvu.edu
Genotypic Selection for Poplar Biofuels Production on Abandoned Minelands Biofuels production in the U.S. can be substantially increased by enhancing plant stress tolerance, thus enabling cultivation of currently marginal lands, including abandoned and degraded minelands. Increased soil stress tolerance of perennial plant species such as poplar used for fuel is a key 15
factor in enhancing the productivity and carbon sequestration potential of degraded soils. Our overall research goals are to (1) elucidate the molecular bases of ionic stress tolerance in poplar trees and (2) develop poplar genotypes that can be used for economically feasible production of biofuels on marginal lands, such as surface mine sites in the southeastern U.S. and arid lands of the western U.S. Jonathan Cumming Biology 304-293-5260 jcumming@wvu.edu
Biocomposite and Bioenergy Processing and Products My research in biocomposites is related to process improvement and new product development from natural, renewable materials. Additionally, my research focuses on using recycled materials to produce value-added energy efficient composites. In relation to bioenergy, my research focuses on biomass pre-treatment. Specifically I am researching grinding and densification of biomass (including torrefied biomass) for energy related applications. David DeVallance Forestry & Natural Resources 304-293-0029 david.devallance@mail.wvu.edu
Genetic Improvement of Woody Crops for Biofuels and Bioremediation We use large-scale, high-throughput genetic and genomic approaches to identify genes that control key traits that are important for woody crops in biofuel and bioremediation applications. These genes are then targeted using genetic engineering to determine their precise biological functions, and to evaluate their commercial potential. This work is accomplished within the context of extensive collaborative projects that involve academic, government, and industrial partners. Stephen DiFazio Biology 304-293-5314 spdifazio@mail.wvu.edu
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Shale Gas and Oil Shale Characterization Dr. Ebrahim Fathi is an expert in unconventional oil and gas recovery. He is heavily involved in shale gas characterization and worked on developing new protocols for shale permeability, porosity and sorption measurements. He also worked on upscaling of laboratory measurement results to the reservoir scale. His research focus is on gas production from Shale gas reservoirs under HTHP conditions and dynamic geomechanical effects. Ebrahim Fathi Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering 304-293-2449 ebfathi@mail.wvu.edu
Energy Business and Regulation Professor Joshua Fershee is a nationally recognized legal scholar in the areas of energy law and business law. His research focuses on the intersection of business and energy law. Recent articles have discussed economic, environmental and social opportunities and issues in hydraulic fracturing for the oil and gas, renewable energy programs in the transportation and electricity sectors, climate policy, geothermal energy, criminal environmental enforcement in energy arena (urging a tempered approach), and corporate governance. Joshua Fershee Law 304-293-2868 jpfershee@mail.wvu.edu
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells 1. Degradation of SOFC anodes caused by impurities in the fuel (e.g., coal syngas). 2. Degradation of SOFC cathodes due to chemical and structural changes. 3. Analysis of impedance spectra of SOFCs using deconvolution. 4. Novel SOFC electrode structures. Harry O. Finklea Chemistry 304-293-4742 Harry.Finklea@mail.wvu.edu
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Sustainable Product Design & Development: Green Insulation I am looking at developing building insulation products focused on simple, minimal remanufacture of a clean waste material that is readily available in communities across the globe. In addition to the potential energy benefits associated with the use of the finished product, the remanufacture process would address a waste disposal issue faced by those entities that produce the waste material. Chris Haddox Design & Merchandising 304-293-3657 chris.haddox@mail.wvu.edu
Optical Measurements of Magnetic and Ferroelectric Materials The Holcomb group specializes in the characterization of magnetic and ferroelectric surfaces and interfaces. Our expertise is in novel techniques including nonlinear ultrafast optics and synchrotron radiation methods. Current projects include understanding the mechanisms affecting magnetoelectric coupling, magnetic dead layers and gas adsorption in ferroelectrics. The successful application of these results could lead to faster, more energy efficient computers (and other devices) and the need for less materials resulting in cheaper manufacture. Mikel Holcomb Physics 304-293-5196 mikel.holcomb@mail.wvu.edu
TransTech Energy Business Development Conference The TransTech Energy Business Development Conference, to be held at the Waterfront Place Hotel in Morgantown, Nov 14 – 16, 2012, is a venue for start-up TTE companies and commercializable projects to make pitches to investor groups for funding. In addition, student teams may participate in the Student TTE Business Concept Paper Competition. Conference Agenda, application and registration forms, concept paper guidelines, and examples of TTE technologies are on the Conference website, http:// TransTechEnergy.org. The Conference is a technology transfer and outreach activity of ARPA-E, WVDE, WVU, WVMEP, and other public and 18
private sector co-sponsors. TransTech Energy (TTE) technologies and strategies move us along the pathway to a lower carbon, industrially competitive, and sustainable clean energy economy of the future. The goals of the Conference are to facilitate investment in start-up TTE companies and projects, to create jobs, to provide opportunities for advanced manufacturing, and to improve efficiencies of existing energy-intensive companies and fossil energy industries. Carl Irwin NRCCE TransTech Energy Program 304-293-7318 carl.irwin@mail.wvu.edu
National Drinking Water Clearinghouse (NDWC) and National Small Flows Clearing house (NSFC) For 35 years NESC at WVU through its NDWC and NSFC has been providing free technical assistance, and training to small and rural communities on contemporary drinking water and wastewater topics and problem solving. Through its web based services including web pages, publications, downloadable products and its direct telephone technical assistance, NESC provides a direct link to hundreds of thousands of clients that are familiar with its history of services. It also houses capabilities in conferencing, training forum development and execution, reporting/editing and regulatory agency liaison through participation in national forums and hosting the State Onsite Regulators Alliance the only national organization of State onsite wastewater regulators that have oversight for septic and decentralized wastewater systems. Its staff of 10 resides at NRCCE on the Evansdale campus. Gerald R. Iwan National Environmental Services Center/(NESC)/NRCCE 304-293-6894 Gerald.Iwan@mail.wvu.edu
Regional Modeling My research interests center on regional economic development issues ranging from development strategies through the refinement and extensions of regional economic modeling frameworks to energy and 19
environmental modeling. Recent projects have included modeling the regional and or national impacts of the introduction of new energy related technologies. Randall Jackson Regional Research Institute 304-293-8734 randall.jackson@mail.wvu.edu
Innovative Technologies for Post-combustion Carbon Capture Nano-layered sorbents and phase change solvents were developed for post-combustion carbon capture. These innovative technologies, invented together with researchers at DoE-NETL, will substantially reduce energy cost. Bingyun Li Orthopaedics 304-293-1075 bili@hsc.wvu.edu
Application of Natural Gas as Transportation Fuel Natural gas has been recognized as clean alternative fuel for both compression and spark ignition engines. The application of natural gas as transportation fuel has been shown to reduce fleet operation cost, exhaust emissions of pollutants, and greenhouse gas. In the past decades, Dr. Li and his research group have conducted extensive experimental and numerical simulation of internal combustion engines associated with the engine performance, combustion process, and exhaust emissions of both diesel and spark ignition engines operated on both traditional and alternative fuels including natural gas, hydrogen, and biomass derived fuels. Benefiting from his fundamental knowledge to fire safety and past experience in establishing safety operation standard and regulations, Dr. Li has developed his expertise in application of natural gas as fuel, safety operation of gas station and CNG vehicle maintenance, and evaluation of methane emissions associated with natural gas industry, pipe line system and CNG vehicles. Dr. Li’s research group also provides consulting work to small transportation agents regarding the application of new energy vehicles including hybrid vehicles, application of alternative fuels, and 20
safety operation procedures of high pressure fuel systems. Dr. Hailin Li Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3187 hailin.li@mail.wvu.edu
Energy Efficient Water Treatment Technologies
Water management for energy production. Innovative wastewater treatment technologies. Hydraulic fracturing flowback water treatment. Acid mine drainage treatment (sulfate removal).
Lance Lin Civil & Environmental Engineering 304-293-9935 lianshin.lin@mail.wvu.edu
Low Temperature Sodium Battery for Stationary Energy Storage Affordable, efficient, large-scale battery storage is one of the grand challenges for deploying renewable energy. Current available Na batteries suffer from high operation temperature and severe corrosion issues that lead to low efficiency and high operation cost. We are developing lowtemperature Na-batteries based on our patent pending composite electrolyte technologies that can significantly reduce the operation temperature and thus improve efficiency and reduce cost. Xingbo Liu Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3339 xingbo.liu@mail.wvu.edu
Energy Systems Simulation Our work is dedicated to accelerating the commercialization of new energy technologies through scientifically accurate simulation and statistical analysis of experimental data. Of special interest is multi-scale modeling of systems for power generation and energy conversion. We have special expertise in systems incorporating electrochemical components such as 21
fuel cells and batteries, along with various systems for carbon capture in centralized power generating facilities. We believe that our methods have broad applications in the energy conversion and chemical process industries. David Mebane Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 256-690-3321 david.mebane@mail.wvu.edu
Microbial Proton Pumps: Powering the Future Marine bacteria contain proton pumps which they use to facilitate chemical energy production in the form of ATP synthesis. The proton gradient-producing capability of these bacteria can be harnessed for potential alternative energy applications. My group uses computational simulations to provide a deeper understanding of these processes by uncovering details that cannot be revealed through experimental techniques, such as atomic interactions and charge-transfer processes that drive this proton gradient. We also use simulations to identify potential protein scaffolds that could potentially be more efficient and stable than using these proton pumps in their native environment. Blake Mertz Chemistry 304-293-9166 blake.mertz@mail.wvu.edu
Production Optimization and Management of Shale Resources Current state of reservoir and production management technologies fall short of comprehensively capturing the complexities associated with reservoir, completion and production from new Shale resources. Research and development at PEARL is focused on developing new technologies based on hard data collected from the operation (the type of data that currently is generated in vast amounts but remains effectively unused during the analysis) to manage and optimize production. This technology minimizes assumptions and interpretations by learning from the data generated from the field. This is accomplished by pattern recognition
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capabilities of a set of tools and techniques collectively known as Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining. Shahab D. Mohaghegh Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering 304-293-3984 Shahab.Mohaghegh@mail.wvu.edu
Gas and Wind Turbine Design and Durability Research 
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Heat transfer, film cooling, aerodynamics, materials, combustion and durability research in gas turbine engines for propulsion and power applications. Wind resource assessment and wind turbine economics, wind turbine blade aerodynamics and durability research. Fuel economy and performance testing of conventional diesel, biodiesel, CNG and hybrid-electric vehicles.
Andrew C. Nix Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-0801 andrew.nix@mail.wvu.edu
Xenobiotic Particle Exposure and Microvascular Health Inhalation exposure experiments are performed in my laboratory. The toxicity of engineered nanomaterials and ambient particulate matter in terms of microvascular health are assessed. Because we are also interested in drug delivery platforms, non-pulmonary exposure routes are also assessed. Most recently, we are assessing the impacts of the xenobiotic materials on maternal and fetal outcomes. Tim Nurkiewicz Physiology 304-293-7328 tnurkiewicz@hsc.wvu.edu
The Watershed Futures Planner: Applications in Intensively Mined Appalachian Watersheds A key challenge for environmental and economic planning has been the 23
quantification of environmental costs and benefits. The Watershed Futures Planner (WFP) is a spatial decision support system that integrates landscape analysis, watershed connectivity, and complex statistical models to predict ecological costs and benefits of management decisions at a watershed scale. WFP incorporates pre-development conditions and identifies the relative significance of the watershed’s current stressors. The WFP provides an efficient means for quantitative analysis of permitting and mitigation decisions within watersheds where active mining, gas drilling, and/or development are prevalent. Todd Petty Forestry & Natural Resources 304-293-2278 jtpetty@mail.wvu.edu
Water and Land Use I research issues involving water rights, land use law and the governmental authority to regulate. What authority do local governments have to regulate hydraulic fracturing, for example? I look at rights to use water, including in energy production and agriculture. Jesse Richardson Law School 304-293-9460 jesse.richardson@mail.wvu.edu
Batteries, Fuel Cells, Micro-sensors and Energy-harvesting Dr. Sabolsky's research focuses on the development of electro-mechanical and chemical sensors, nanomaterials, reforming catalyst, fuel cells, separation membranes, and batteries. This research includes the synthesis of complex oxide ceramic powders and nanomaterials, fabrication of novel ceramic monolithic structures at the macro- to micro-levels, and manipulation of grain structure (and grain orientation) to improve performance. Edward M. Sabolsky Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3272 ed.sabolsky@mail.wvu.edu
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Growth of Green Microalgae for Biodiesel Production and Carbon Capture Green algae use atmospheric carbon dioxide as a carbon source for biomass production. Under favorable conditions they accumulate cellular lipids that can be extracted to produce diesel fuel. Our preliminary research has examined biodiesel production and carbon dioxide capture by Chlorella vulgaris and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. We investigated immobilization of these algae in alginate spheres as a novel medium to capture gaseous carbon dioxide. Alan J. Sexstone Plant & Soil Sciences 304-293-9240 alan.sexstone@mail.wvu.edu
Fingerprinting Stray Gas in Areas of Accelerating Shale Gas Development To better understand stray gas issues associated with shale gas drilling our research group is 1) studying the baseline variations in dissolved methane concentrations, and 2) developing a suite of natural geochemical tracers that can track sources dissolved methane in the groundwaters or surface waters of the area. Shikha Sharma Geology & Geography 304-293-6717 shikha.sharma@mail.wvu.edu
Biomass Gasification, Pyrolysis, Combustion, and Liquefaction My research is focused on wood, sometimes mixed with coal, energy using Gasification, Pyrolysis, Combustion, and Liquefaction technologies. We have successfully processed coal and biomass mixtures and produced hybrid fuels suitable for co-gasification process. In addition, we have produced liquid fuels from coal-torrefied wood mixtures. We also provide lab services for characterizing solid fuels for BTU content, elemental composition, proximate analysis, compaction behavior testing, and thermal decomposition behavior testing, In addition, we can perform light gas analysis, moisture analysis in liquid fuels, particle size analysis, and gasification, pyrolysis, and torrefaction of supplied feedstock. We are 25
looking forward to working with companies involved in gasification and combustion technologies. In addition, we are looking forward to working with companies pioneering in pyrolysis and subsequent refining of pyrolysis oil to produce drop-in fuels. Kaushlendra Singh Forestry & Natural Resources 304-293-7643 Kaushlendra.Singh@mail.wvu.edu
Gas Production Enhancement and CO2 Sequestration in Geologic Formations Dr. Siriwardane’s research covers topics on sequestration of CO2 in coal seams and depleted gas reservoirs, and stimulation of tight gas formations such as shale gas. Influence of properties such as sorption, stressdependent permeability, permeability anisotropy, and swelling/shrinkage on CO2 storage potential and enhanced gas production is investigated by using three-dimensional, dual-porosity, multi-phase fluid flow models coupled with geomechanical models. Hema Siriwardane Civil & Environmental Engineering 304-293-9946 hema.siriwardane@mail.wvu.edu
Land Reclamation and Water Treatment I work in reclamation of disturbed lands and improvement of water quality. My work includes acid mine drainage control and treatment, overburden and soil analyses, revegetation of disturbed lands, reforestation, and postmining land use development. Jeff Skousen Plant & Soil Sciences 304-293-2667 jskousen@wvu.edu
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Electric Vehicles: Modeling and Optimization With the integration of renewable energy resources the uncertainty of availability of power has increased as these sources are largely intermittent. To accommodate these intermittencies demand response that has complimentary characteristics can be utilized. Electric Vehicles can participate in the demand response programs along with other residential loads giving more demand control parameters to utilities. Renewable energy can also provide power to electric vehicles without having to necessarily ramp generations as off-peak excess energy can be utilized. Model and Optimize the distribution system interfaced to with renewable resources and perform simulation with a multi-agent control strategy. Our research group is equipped with industry leading software such as Hydro Qubec PSCAD/EMTDC, Milsoft WindMil, EPRI OpenDSS, Siemens PTI PSS/E and other research software such as GRIDLab-D, Virtual Test Bed, MATLAB based Distribution Power Flow and much more. Jignesh Solanki Computer Science & Electrical Engineering 304-293-5071 Jignesh.Solanki@mail.wvu.edu
Electric Distribution System Modeling, Analysis and Control My research emphasis is on modeling distribution feeder with power flow analysis and impacts of renewable sources on the network for various levels of penetration and location along the feeder. Distribution Feeder Optimization is also a focus of this research for loss minimization, feeder balancing and phase balancing. Frequency stabilization of a large microgrid network under rapid changes of load is currently being pursued using fastacting Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and application of renewable energy sources such as PhotoVoltaic (PV) and Wind Turbine Generator (WTG) accompanied with these ESSs and also Diesel Engine Generator (DEG) in a hybrid system. Sarika Khushalani Solanki Computer Science & Electrical Engineering 304-293-9142 skhushalanisolanki@mail.wvu.edu
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Energy Related Applications of Graphene During the 2012-2013 academic year I will be at NETL pursuing research aimed at exploring energy related applications of graphene based electronics. These include gas and liquid chemical sensors, energy harvesting, and catalysis. The research is based on graphene synthesis and device fabrication methods developed over the past several years at WVU. Charter Stinespring Chemical Engineering 304-293-9363 charter.stinespring@mail.wvu.edu
Analysis of Spatial Data for Natural Resource Management My research focuses on using geospatial technologies to aid in the mapping and analysis of natural resources. Mike Strager Resource Management 304-293-6463 mstrager@wvu.edu
Sensors and Measurement Strategies for Water Quality Monitoring and Treatment We have three areas of focus in our research: (1) development of quick, portable methods for measurement of CO2 and inorganic carbon in water, (2) design of gel beads used for tracing contaminant and sediment transport, detecting the presence of metals, and removing metals from water; and, (3) electrochemical reduction of contaminants and selenium using a passive green technology. Dorothy Vesper Geology & Geography 304-293-9816 djvesper@mail.wvu.edu
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Bioenergy and Bioproducts from Woody Biomass The Bioenergy Research and Development Center at West Virginia University is working to provide technological innovations along with student and professional education, while promoting biomass utilization and economic growth. Our areas of focus for research and development are: feedstock development, biofuel and bio-product development, economic and environmental impact analysis and education and outreach. Through these areas the emphasis is on generating value for underutilized and low-valued biomaterials while creating opportunities for economic growth in rural communities. Jingxin Wang Forestry & Natural Resources 304-293-7601 jxwang@wvu.edu
Wind Turbine Cyclic Loading Reduction and Efficiency Increase Control System The goal of this research is to develop control algorithms that utilize active flow control techniques to reduce cyclic loading while not significantly impacting efficiency. Jay Wilhelm Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-0200 jay.wilhelm@mail.wvu.edu
3D Seismic Interpretation and Fracture Modeling (Seal and Reservoir) Recent papers focus on characterization of unconventional fractured reservoirs. The focus has been on enhanced recovery, CO2 storage and leakage risk. My research has been funded largely by the National Energy Technology Laboratory and the Petroleum Research Fund of the American Chemical Society. More information about my research and recent publication is available at http://www.geo.wvu.edu/~wilson/ Thomas H. Wilson Geology & Geography 304-293-6431 tom.wilson@mail.wvu.edu
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Nanotechnology for Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Dr. Nick Wu’s core expertise lies in nanomaterials, nanodevices, electrochemistry and opto-electronics. He strives to utilize nanotechnology to develop photocatalysts, solar cells, supercapacitors and solid oxide fuel cells. Dr. Wu is developing photocatalysts and devices to harvest solar energy more efficiently for hydrogen generation and carbon dioxide conversion as well as environmental remmediation. He is developing new nanomaterials and designing nano-architecture to improve the energy density and rate capability of supercapacitors. He is exploring new nanostructures for cathode of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), which has resulted in the reduced operating enrapture for SOFCs. Nianqiang (Nick) Wu Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3326 nick.wu@mail.wvu.edu
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“Excel in research, creative activity, and innovation in all disciplines.” —Goal 2, WVU 2020 Strategic Plan for the Future
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Hosted by Linking Innovation, Industry and Commercialization (LIINC)
For more information on LIINC, please visit the website at: http://innovation.research.wvu.edu or contact Lindsay Emery directly at lindsay.emery@mail.wvu.edu 304-293-0391 Made possible from the support of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation
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