The aim of our project is to increase the accessibility to vaccines in regions of Sub-Saharan Africa that do not have proper cold chain storage solutions, due to unreliable grid electricity and a lack of funding. As our solution, we have prototyped a solar-powered thermoelectric refrigeration system. We utilized thermo-electric coolers as the cooling system for our refrigerator, eliminating the need for moving parts and maintenance. We used heat pipes, in addition to heat fins and fans to allow for maximum dissipation.

Faculty Advisors: Michael Fowler & Ali Elkamel

This project aims to improve the performance of a zinc-air battery by coating the anode with graphene oxide. Graphene oxide was combined with PTFE to form a slurry. This slurry was coated onto the zinc anode which was then placed in series with a carbon cathode to form a zinc-air battery. We implemented a graphene oxide coating in hopes to reduce the rate of corrosion, increase the aerial discharge rate, and increase the lifespan of the battery.

Faculty Advisor: Zhongwei Chen

This project investigates an optimized conversion of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic water bottle waste to activated carbon for dye-contaminated wastewater treatment. Additionally, a primary design of an industrial PET carbonization process is proposed and evaluated in terms of cost and sustainability.

Faculty Advisor: Tiz Mekonnen

6-pack rings are not recyclable because recycling facilities struggle with process complications due to the material and the geometry. Our goal is to design an alternative 6-pack ring that is able to be recycled. In this project, we will design and prototype a ring made from moulded pulp. We will test the physical properties of the ring to assess its suitability for use and we will complete a full impacts and feasibility analysis to estimate the environmental and economical impacts.

Faculty Advisor: Leonardo Simon

As the pending issue of climate change continues to rise, the global transition towards renewable energy becomes increasingly important. Based on technological development and accessibility, solar energy has proven to be the most promising source. Our project consists of a feasibility study for the implementation of a solar energy system for the E6 building. This involves designing and modelling the system’s energy generation capacity, as well as the analysis of economic, environmental, and safety impacts.

Faculty Advisor: Luis Ricardez Sandoval