UROP Project

Materials, Friction and Wear, Hydrogen power
Research Mentor: Craig Barbour,
Department, College, Affiliation: Mechanical Engineering , FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: craig1.barbour@famu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering, Material Science, Physics, Chemistry
**Students from other backgrounds are welcome to apply**
Project Location: 2003 Levy Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: FSU and FAMU Bus lines to the College of Engineering
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Energy and Power companies have been looking at possible renewable power sources to propel mankind into the future. One possibility at the front of this search is hydrogen power. However, hydrogen puts major stress on materials when stored and burned as fuel causing critical failures in power systems. Students will be investigating protective coatings meant to be used in hydrogen environments.

Research Tasks: Students will conduct experiments, review literature, and learn how to interpret data in a tribology (study of friction, wear, and lubricants) laboratory. The main goal of the work performed by students is to help advance readiness of materials to be used in hydrogen environments.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: There are no "required" skills needed to start working in this laboratory.
Recommended:
- Excel
- Matlab
**Recommended skills can/will be learned while working in lab**

Mentoring Philosophy

As a mentor, I believe in developing relationships built on mutual respect, where both mentor and mentee contribute to each other's growth. My approach centers on creating a safe and supportive environment where it's okay to fail and learn from those failures. This safety net is crucial for encouraging risk-taking and exploration, which are essential for personal and professional growth.

I seek to challenge my mentees, guiding them through obstacles that push their boundaries and develop resilience. I encourage them to ask questions and seek understanding, as this is a powerful tool for learning. My goal is to empower mentees to become independent thinkers who are confident in their abilities to navigate challenges and continuously seek knowledge.

Additional Information


Link to Publications