Energy:
Mission: The Energy Center of Excellence pursues applied and fundamental research to develop combustion solutions for renewable energy production and improved efficiency of non-renewable energy generation. Information and technology developments are disseminated through publications, presentations, and teaching. Collaboration with industry ensures implementation of research results.   Faculty: The faculty in the Energy Center include: Dr. Judi Steciak, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, combustion and air pollution issues. Dr. Ralph Budwig, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, fluid mechanics and experimental methods. Dr. Steve Beyerlein, Professor or Mechanical Engineering, internal combustion engine dynamics.   Research Projects: Catalytic ignition of renewable fuels in transportation vehicles. Improved combustion efficiency of heavy hydrocarbon fuels. Slag-free gasification and combustion of herbaceous biomass. Catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide in micro-scale ceramic thrusters.          Class Offerings: ME433 Combustion Engine Systems. ME529 Combustion and Air Pollution. ME547 Thermal Radiation Processes.   Students: David Mehaffey, MSME candidate Brad McGary, MSME candidate, Catalytic ignition temperature of bio-diesel fuels over platinum. R. Joshua Royce, MSME candidate, Fluid dynamics and ignition model of a catalytic igniter. Joshua Gibson, MSME candidate, Catalytic ignition temperature of aqueous ethanol over platinum. Katrina Leichliter, MSME, Catalytic ignition temperature of propane-oxygen-nitrogen-water mixtures over platinum, 2009. Donald Plumlee, PhD, Development of a monopropellant micro-propulsion device in low temperature co-fired ceramics, 2007. Bob Lounsbury, MSME, Catalytic ignition temperatures of propane-oxygen-nitrogen mixtures over platinum, 2007. Amit Patel, MSME, Development of a plug-flow reactor for fundamental oxidative catalysis studies, 2004. Jim Scranton, MSME, Design and Economic Analysis of a Portable Straw Burning Electric Generator, 2001.   Funding Agencies: US Department of Agriculture US Department of Defense US Department of Energy NASA Idaho's Higher Education Research Council Idaho Energy Division Idaho Transportation Department   University, Industry, and Agency Collaborators: Boise State University Automotive Resources, Inc. Energy Products of Idaho, Inc. Renaissance Engineering and Design, PLLC Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory National Institute of Advanced Transportation Technology