Ben Carleton Email & Phone Number

My thesis is about optimizing the production of biologically produced thermoplastics from waste streams (specifically, dairy manure) using mixed microbial consortia. The ultimate goal is to provide a sustainable, commercially viable product as an alternative to current plastic production. Much attention has been given to optimizing the pre-production stage (i.e. enrichment phase), and my research will focus attention on the production phase itself.

Conduct and present experimental data of different dairy manures in Idaho. Operated and maintained a to-scale model of the biologically enhanced Moscow, ID municipal wastewater treatment plant. Includes daily testing and data analysis. Assisted graduate students with data collection and other research tasks.

Dept. Of Chemical Engineering

International environmental design contest, held annually in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Competition goal is to inspire innovative environmental engineering in various environmentally related tasks. I competed two years in a row and was the student leader of the final year. In 2013, my team was awarded $1,000 2nd place for nitrate removal from drinking water in rural areas and an additional $1,000 award from the Bureau of Reclamation for innovative use of renewable resources.

Independently maintained operations of three systems capable of ultra-low phosphorus removal, including stress-testing. The pilot project was conducted in response to stringent new discharge regulations, prompting the need for accurate data regarding performance. Relayed results, operational problems, and research ideas to the project manager.

Master Of Science (M.S.), Chemical Engineering, Optimization Of Bioplastic Production Using Mixed Microbial Consortia

Bachelor Of Science (Bs), Chemical Engineering

Associate Of Science (A.S.), Chemical Engineering

Activities and Societies: Member of Phi, Theta, KappaCompleted core curriculum for Chemical Engineering major, obtained Associate.