Photo-Responsive Sponge Absorption Test

To see which silsesquioxane-based photo-responsive sponge absorbed the chemicals perfluoroctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanic acid (PFOA) from water the best. PFOS and PFOA are deemed hazardous by the EPA but are found difficult and expensive to remove from drinking water. The goal of this project is to extract the PFOS and PFAS in an efficient, cost effective manner.

For the project, I learned how to synthesize a silsesquioxane Q8M8H reaction starting material for Dr. Furgal’s research group.

I wanted to get involved with the field of chemistry and work with Dr. Furgal, as he was a large component as to why I wanted to begin research in the first place.

There were three samples tested to see which molecular sponge would best absorb the hazardous chemicals that could be found in drinking water with one being the control. It was found that the sample synthesized in acetonitrile with the larger pores had a better uptake of PFOS than the sample from dichloromethane (DCM).

The biggest challenge was learning how to balance research with all the other activities that I had going on that semester. I had to practice time-management and make sure I left time to accomplish everything I needed to do.

I learned the fundamentals and process of research and how to use a different variety of instruments. The experience I gained was beneficial to me, as research is one of the paths I am considering in the future as a career.

The scholarship helped motivate me as a student to work hard to accomplish the goals that I set.

My advice would be to find a mentor that would work best for you and to branch out in what you would like to try.

A fun fact about me is that I stayed awake for my ACL reconstruction surgery on my knee and watched as it was happening.