Myoglobin Kinetics

This research explores the catalytic properties of
myoglobin, a muscle protein primarily known for
oxygen storage, and its ability to break down
hydrogen peroxide. Using Macromolecular Rate
Theory (MMRT), the study compares myoglobin’s
pseudo-peroxidase activity to lactoperoxidase (a
true enzyme) and copper ions (a non-enzymatic
catalyst), across different temperatures and pH
levels.

The research highlights how myoglobin's structure
changes during the reaction, revealing its broader
biological role beyond oxygen transport. By
analyzing temperature effects on enzyme kinetics
and changes in heat capacity (ΔCp‡), students can
learn how modern tools like MMRT deepen our
understanding of enzyme behavior and catalytic
mechanisms. This area is ideal for those interested
in biochemistry, enzyme kinetics, and
thermodynamics.


Tungsten Carbide Corrosion

This research focuses on improving the recycling of
tungsten carbide (WC) and polycrystalline diamond
(PCD) materials through electro-leaching in ionic liquid
environments. WC and PCD are widely used in industrial
tools for their hardness and durability. Traditional acid-
based leaching methods are effective but
environmentally harmful, while electro-leaching offers a
greener alternative by dissolving metal binders like
cobalt or nickel through an electric current.


By using ionic liquids, which allow higher voltages than
water-based solutions, the project aims to increase the
speed and efficiency of electro-leaching. Success in this
research could lead to faster recycling processes and
more sustainable production of high-performance tools,
benefiting both industry and the environment.


This project gives students hands-on experience with
electrochemical techniques, data analysis, and
presentation skills, while contributing to sustainable
manufacturing practices.

Formulation research in personal care products or
nutritional supplements focuses on creating and
optimizing product blends, such as lotions,
shampoos, or protein shakes to ensure
effectiveness, stability, and consumer appeal. It
involves studying how ingredients interact to
produce desired properties, like texture and
performance. Researchers use both traditional lab
techniques and advanced tools, analytical
chemistry, biochemistry or even machine learning,
to identify stability and accelerate product
development. This allows for more efficient
testing and fine-tuning of formulations. By
leveraging these approaches, scientists can
develop innovative, safe, and sustainable
products that meet consumer needs and industry
standards.

Formulations

Bio-Fuel Cells

This research focuses on developing biofuel cells that harness electrical power from natural sources
like sugars, such as glucose. By utilizing simple, cost-effective materials, we create fuel cells that
convert chemical energy from carbohydrates directly into electricity without relying on enzymes or
microorganisms. This work aims to design more sustainable, efficient energy solutions for powering
small devices, with applications ranging from environmental sensors to medical implants. Our
research is pushing the boundaries of renewable energy by exploring how common, naturally
occurring compounds can be used to generate clean, accessible power for everyday technologies.

Group Members





Collin Tuttle

Student at UVU


Gabe Gardiner

Student at UVU


Antonio Oliveira

Student at UVU


Jeremy Johansen

Student at UVU



Ella Escobedo

Student at UVU






Donwell Odongo

Student at UVU





Kade Southerland

Student at UVU


Emma Cattron

Student at UVU


Mahonri Rushton

Student at UVU





Chance Miller

Student at UVU



Past Group Members




Grant Barron


Michael Hannesson

Student at BYU


Benjamin Terry

Student at U of U


Simeon Tanner

Student at U of U


Emma Cattron

Student at UVU


Jacob Cannon

Student at UVU


Katharine Judge

Student at UVU





Designed with