Page 34 - The Peorian, Vol 3 Issue 2

34 thePeorian.com
Biochar, a charcoal-like
material created by “burning”
organic material in the absence
of oxygen, is an example of a
potential replacement for these
fillers. Biochar can also be used
as a water management tool and
in controlled-release fertilizers.
“My high school chemistry
teacher really encouraged me
to look into a science career and
directed me to ISU and their
cooperative-learning program.
That resulted in my working at
The Eastman Kodak Company
for a summer and really getting
to see how different science
degrees led to different careers.”
“I expected a lifelong learning
process about science; what I did
not expect is what I have learned
about trust and teamwork.
The technicians here are very
experienced and knowledgeable
– from repairing complex
equipment to helping design lab
experiments to introducing me to
other researchers in the building
for potential collaboration.
Instead of having to do
everything myself, I’ve learned
with that high caliber of people
and equipment I can accomplish
exponentially more research if I
get out of their way.” ~ Steve
Dr. Frank Momany, a research chemist with 50 years experience, is doing computer modeling of starch and
cellulose structures. Below, Dr. Victoria Finkenstadt, also a research chemist, studies biobased materials.