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The Winters group is interested in two primary and broad research initiatives. First, we use an home-built thermal chemical vapor deposition (TCVD) apparatus to thermally decompose straight-chain hydrocarbons near atmospheric pressure in an high temperature inert atmosphere to produce carbon films with varying properties dependent upon production conditions. These carbon films, along with the system production conditions giving rise to specific film attributes, are studied using instrumental techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, electrical conductivity, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and attenuated total reflectance - Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Second, we design, produce, and assemble open-source, 3D printable instrument systems for a wide range of applications. These instruments include a fully customizable optomechanical cage system for open-space spectroscopy, a modular optical enclosure system for the safe operation of high-power photonics systems, and a modular visible light smartphone spectrophotometer. Our ongoing research seeks to expand the capabilities and use of open-source instruments in the developing world where financial and infrastructure resources are insufficient to support the purchase and ongoing use of commercially available equipment.
Using our home-built TCVD apparatus, we are able to produce films of carbon with a wide range of properties. These graphene oxide (GO) materials along with the production techniques are interesting for many reasons related to scalability and advanced electronic applications.
Numerous instruments ranging from the modular or customizable to application-specific have been developed. Research continues as we look for opportunities to see these instruments in use throughout the developing world.
Brandon J. Winters, Ph.D.
Brandon J. Winters, Ph.D.
I grew up in central Minnesota on a small beef farm. I credit this rural upbringing with my love for all things home-built. Among my greatest passions is sharing this love with others. I feel most "at home" in my microscopy and instrument fabrication lab or my garage with my hands busy building and doing. Rather than long sunset walks on the beach, I prefer a stroll through a local hardware store imaging what new and creative uses might be dreamt up for all that I find.
In my teaching, I appreciate a practical approach that emphasizes hands-on experience and demonstration over theory or abstract thought. This is evident in the semi-flipped classroom model I utilize, which allows for extra small-group problem solving, class discussions, and instructor lead example problems.
As a college instructor and Christian, I feel a profound obligation to prepare students for productive and transformational roles in the world. A significant part of this work is dealing with the call God has placed on each of our lives, learning to hear this call, and becoming willing to be obedient.
Winters CV F2023.pdfBrandon J. Winters, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry
Chair - Department of Chemistry
Bethel University
PO 57, AC104
3900 Bethel Dr.
St. Paul, MN 55112
651-638-6391
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