College
College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Date of Last Revision
2026-05-06 06:30:26
Major
Chemical Engineering
Honors Course
CHEE:497
Number of Credits
4
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
My proposed project will study the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of rhamnolipids using the pendant-drop and drop-weight methods. First, the critical micelle concentrations of ionic and nonionic common surfactants will be tested. Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) will be used as an ionic surfactant and Tween 20 will be used as a nonionic surfactant. The critical micelle concentrations will be determined using the pendant-drop and drop-weight methods. The experimental results from the standard surfactants compared to their accepted values will be tested to assist with determining a more suitable approach. Completing the tests will provide a better understanding of critical micelle concentration. The project will then focus on studying the CMC of rhamnolipids using both methods. A rhamnolipid synthesized in-house by Dr. Ju's research team will be analyzed.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Bi-min Zhang Newby
First Reader
Dr. Roya Gitiafroz
Second Reader
Dr. Qixin Zhou
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. Bi-min Zhang Newby
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Community Engaged Scholarship
No
Recommended Citation
Kunz, Kathryn E., "Determining Critical Micelle Concentrations of Standard Surfactants and Rhamnolipids" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2170.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2170