PNNL

Researchers from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) join peers from around the world at the 2024 AIChE Annual Meeting. Visit us in Booth 621 to learn about careers and current job openings in chemical engineering and chemistry.

Careers at PNNL

Looking for internship, postdoctoral, and full-time job opportunities in chemical engineering? Stop by exhibit booth #621 and chat with our recruiters!

Can't make it? Search our currently open positions at any time and join our online talent community:

Featured PNNL Presentations

Monday, October 28

The Effects of Dissolver Geometry on Nuclear Fuel Dissolution: Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer
8:18–8:36a.m. | Presented by Richard Overstreet

A discussion of how PNNL conducted small batch nuclear fuel dissolution experiments that revealed varying dissolution rates based on fuel rod orientation and basket geometry. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), they analyzed how tank features and basket design influence acid recirculation and heat transfer. This work aims to optimize dissolver design by considering flow dynamics and heat transfer effects.

Fungal Contributions to the Birch Effect: Insights from Microfluidics in Dryland Ecosystems
1:24–1:42p.m. | Presented by Yi-Syuan Guo

A presentation on a PNNL study that uses soil micromodels with fungi to simulate these cycles and assess fungal contributions to CO2 release and moisture retention. The findings aim to clarify fungi's role in the Birch Effect, enhancing understanding of dryland ecosystem responses to climate change.

Enhancing Regulatory Compliance: Assessing Hazardous Waste Standards with Low-Code Tools
4:40–5:05p.m. | Presented by Heather Sabella

To improve waste management, PNNL is using Tableau and Microsoft Power Platform tools to analyze large datasets from sampling data and reports. These tools help automate data review, visualize compliance, and structure historical information, improving decision-making for waste classification and management strategies.

Tuesday, October 29

Nuclear Chemical Engineering Outlook
8:00–10:30a.m. | Panelists Gregg Lumetta and Mark Nutt

A presentation and panel discussion of opportunities for nuclear chemical engineering in the nuclear fuel cycle. Researchers at PNNL, Gregg Lumetta and Mark Nutt, are among the panelists for this event. Courtney Bottenus is also co-chairing this presentation.

Quantum Chemical Characterization of Selectivity Control in Sustainable Transformations
1:00–3:00p.m. | Presented by Busra Dereli

This presentation focuses on enhancing catalytic selectivity in chemical synthesis using catalysts or ligands. It highlights iron-alkoxide complexes for redox-controlled polymerization of cyclic esters, emphasizing iron’s potential because of its abundance and reactivity.

Opportunities of Bio-Naphtha Beyond Gasoline Blend: A Comprehensive Techno-Economic and Life-Cycle Analysis
1:54–2:15p.m. | Presented by Shuang Xu

This study explores bio-naphtha, a byproduct of sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel production, and its potential uses. Life cycle analysis and techno-economic analysis guide decision-making on the most sustainable utilization pathways, advancing sustainable biofuel production practices.

Wednesday, October 30

Techno-Economic and Life-Cycle Analysis of Integrated Carbon Capture and Conversion to Materials (IC3M) Platform for Producing Synthetic Natural Gas and Methanol
2:10–2:35p.m. | Presented by Yuan Jiang

This presentation discusses the development of an Integrated Carbon Capture and Conversion to Material (IC3M) platform at PNNL. Using process models and experimental data, the study compares IC3M with other platforms, evaluating energy efficiency, product cost, and greenhouse gas emissions for sustainable production of synthetic natural gas and methanol.

Kinetic Comparisons of Cesium Ion Exchange Performance with Crystalline Silicotitanate
3:30–3:55p.m. | Presented by Reid Peterson

PNNL tested crystalline silicotitanate (CST) ion exchangers for cesium removal from Hanford tank wastes using the Advanced Modular Pretreatment System (AMPS). Laboratory-scale column tests at different scales and residence times were conducted to determine CST usage and throughput rates. The data will aid in modeling breakthrough performance, helping to develop the AMPS flowsheet for optimal cesium removal under varied processing conditions.

TRISO SNF Deconsolidation – Summary of Pnnl’s 3-Year Program
5:35–6:00p.m. | Presented by Stuart Arm

PNNL is working on a 3-year project for the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy Office focused on processing TRISO spent nuclear fuel, which is used in high temperature gas reactors (HTGRs). HTGRs generate more waste due to graphite in the fuel. PNNL is investigating methods to separate the graphite from fuel to improve waste management. They’ve reviewed technologies for fuel deconsolidation, selected the most promising, and developed a flowsheet incorporating nitric acid for fuel dissolution, identifying further research and development needs.

Thursday, October 31

Respirator Cartridge Performance Testing for Chemicals of Potential Concern
8:21–8:42a.m. | Presented by Satish Nune

PNNL and Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS) developed a test system to evaluate respirator cartridge performance used at Hanford tank farms. These tests assess effectiveness under varying environmental conditions. The goal is to enhance worker safety by improving cartridge change schedules. Lab results were compared to field data to validate the methodology and refine safety protocols.