Polymer Science: Unraveling the Science, One Chain at a Time
Dive into the intricate realm of our research work with our newsletter section. Uncover the science behind these versatile materials, link by link, and stay informed about our latest breakthroughs and innovations shaping our world.
Meet the CRG Youth Summer Team of 2024
This summer, the Caldona Research Group unveils its star-studded junior lineup for Summer 2024, featuring a dynamic roster of young scientists. Headlining the team is returning star Andrea Corrales, a BS Chemistry major and part-time Undergraduate Research Assistant under the North Dakota Soybean Council's Soybean Project. Joining her is Andrew Wusands, also a BS Chemistry student, who will dive into biomedical coatings under the Summer Undergraduate Biomedical Research Program 2024. Mikayla Richmond, a BS Mechanical Engineering student, brings her expertise to the NDSU EXPLORE Program, focusing on polymers for efficient oil-water separation. The rookie high school student Stephanie Mathews joins through the NDSU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department's PICNICS Summer Program. Guided by PhD students Rigel and Roy, along with post-doc Dr. Reymark, this lineup is set to shine bright in the research arena. More about our group members.
Stephanie Joins CRG as Part of the PICNICS 2024 Program
Stephanie Mather, a high school student from Oak Grove Lutheran, is joining the Caldona Research Group this summer through the NDSU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department's PICNICS (Parents Involvement with Children, Nurturing Intellectual Curiosity in Science) Summer Program. Designed to expose high school students to chemical science research and ignite their interest in science and math, the PICNICS program integrates parents and children in scientific exploration, encouraging students from 9th to 12th grade to consider science careers. Stephanie's participation underscores the program's dedication to nurturing young scientific minds and fostering future innovators. More about our group members.
CRG Leads Hands-On Corrosion Prevention Short Course with Dr. Qi's Group
The CRG recently co-led a Corrosion Prevention short course on NDSU's Coatings and Polymeric Materials in collaboration with Dr. Qi's Group. The three-day course featured hands-on lab sessions and workshops, where participants learned essential techniques such as Linear Polarization Resistance, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, Potentiodynamic Polarization, Electrical Equivalent Circuit modeling, Cyclic corrosion tests, Dielectric measurements, and Kelvin Probe Force Measurement. Attendees are left equipped with valuable skills applicable to their work involving corrosion, protective coatings, and polymer/composite materials. About Dr. Qi's Group
Mikayla Joins the Caldona Research Group for NDSU EXPLORE Program (Summer 2024)
Mikayla Richmond is joining the CRG this summer under the NDSU EXPLORE Program under the guidance of CRG's Post-doc Dr. Reymark "Maki". Her project aims to enhance the wetting properties of polymers for efficient oil-water separation. Mikayla's work involves customizing surface textures on various polymers through additive manufacturing, optimizing surface geometry, and post-processing treatments. The project is expected to yield significant research outcomes, including poster presentations and journal publications, while providing Mikayla with valuable insights and networking opportunities in the field of sustainable materials and additive manufacturing. More about our group members.
Fluoropolymer Coatings: Roy's Research with the North Dakota Soybean Council Gets Published
Roy's first research paper at the CRG has been published in the Chemical Engineering Journal, which has an impact factor of 15.1. The paper, titled "Interfacially Adhesive Corrosion Protective Fluoropolymer Coatings Modified by Soybean Extract". The research demonstrated that incorporating soybean extracts into fluoropolymer coatings significantly improved their adhesion to carbon steel and their corrosion resistance. The study also highlighted the sustainable and cost-effective nature of this approach, showing promising results in corrosion resistance tests. This project, funded by the North Dakota Soybean Council and conducted in collaboration with the University of Oklahoma, highlights the potential of green additives in developing high-performance coatings for diverse applications. Read more
Enhancing Surface Adhesion of Fluoropolymer Coatings: Roy's First Review in the CRG Lab
CRG's PhD student, Roy has his first review paper published in Taylor & Francis Polymer Reviews, boasting an impact factor of 13.1. The paper, titled "Toward Enhancing the Surface Adhesion of Fluoropolymer-Based Coating Materials," explores the challenges and advancements in improving the adhesion of fluoropolymer coatings. The review delves into various strategies to enhance adhesion, including physical and chemical modifications, innovative green solutions, and computational approaches. By examining additives, surface roughness, and polymer-substrate interface modifications, the paper aims to offer comprehensive insights into achieving stronger fluoropolymer adhesion. The review also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and the potential of computational methods in understanding adhesion mechanisms. Read more
Andrew Joins the CRG for Summer Biomedical Research 2024
Andrew Wusands, a BS Chemistry student at NDSU, has joined the Caldona Research Group for the Summer Undergraduate Biomedical Research Program 2024. This summer, Andrew will collaborate closely with PhD students Roy and Rigel, focusing on developing and assessing coatings for biomedical applications. The program offers a unique opportunity for undergraduates to gain hands-on research experience and contribute to advancements in biomedical coatings. Under the mentorship of Roy and Rigel, Andrew will explore innovative solutions aimed at enhancing the performance and durability of coatings used in medical devices, highlighting the group's commitment to fostering young talent and advancing biomedical coating research. More about our group members.
Dr. Caldona and Dr. Qi Lead Coatings and Corrosion Prevention Course at PPG Aerospace
Dr. Eugene Caldona (CRG Principal Investigator) and Dr. Xiaoning Qi conducted an intensive short course on Coatings and Corrosion Prevention at PPG Aerospace in Burbank, CA. The course aimed to provide professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the latest coatings technologies and corrosion prevention strategies. Participants gained insights into the fundamental principles of coating materials, application techniques, and the latest advancements in corrosion-resistant technologies. This course highlighted the importance of continuous education and innovation in maintaining the durability and efficiency of aerospace materials. About Dr. Qi's Group
Sakiru Explores Advanced Techniques in Superhydrophobic Coatings in Pioneering Review Paper
In an exciting contribution to materials science, Sakiru has published his first review paper titled "Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Based Superhydrophobic Coatings: Fabrication, Rudiments, and Constraints" with an open access in the Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, (Impact factor of 2.3). This comprehensive review delves into the advanced technique of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) for creating superhydrophobic (SHP) coatings, crucial for enhancing wettability and corrosion resistance. The paper highlights the structural intricacies, wettability properties, and corrosion resistance of these coatings, providing a thorough analysis of design theories and fabrication strategies. Read more
Enhancing Coating Durability: Rigel's New Paper in ACS Industrial & Engineering Chemistry
Rigel has just published his fourth paper in CRG titled "Superhydrophobic, Highly Adhesive, and Corrosion-Protective Fluoropolymer-Modified Polythiophene Coatings," in ACS I&EC Research (Industrial & Engineering Chemistry) with an impact factor of 4.2. This work introduces a novel approach to enhance the adhesion, surface stability, antiwettability, and corrosion resistance of electrodeposited PTH coatings. By incorporating a PVDF-HFP topcoat and a thienyl-substituted silane coupling agent, we've developed a coating that offers superior water repellency and adhesion, meeting the demand for robust protective solutions in challenging environments. This innovation holds promise for advancing sustainability and efficiency across industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and marine. Read more.
CRG Showcases Recent Works at The 2024 American Coatings Conference
The Caldona Research Group (CRG) attended the 2024 American Coatings Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana (April 30 - May 2), themed “Innovations in Coatings Technology: Shaping Our Future.” The event featured over 90 technical sessions across multiple topical tracks. CRG captivated audiences with four poster presentations on utilizing fluoropolymers as coatings. The conference brought together the coatings industry’s technical and scientific community with academia for three days of learning and sharing the latest advancements in coatings technology. CRG’s innovative work highlighted their role in coating a brighter and colorful future.
CPM Seminar Spotlight: Roy and Sakiru's One Year Research Works at CRG
At the recent CPM Seminar, CRG PhD students Roy and Sakiru showcased their pioneer year-long research endeavors. Roy delved into the innovative use of soybean extract as a green additive to fluoropolymer coatings, enhancing surface adhesion and corrosion protection. Meanwhile, Sakiru presented on ceramic-reinforced fluoropolymer nanocomposite coatings, focusing on their efficacy in corrosion protection. Their insightful presentations highlighted sustainable and advanced approaches to developing protective coatings, reflecting CRG's commitment to coating the future through productive and purposeful research.
Dr. Caldona Delivers Keynote on Nanostructured Coatings at EC Conference in Germany
Dr. Caldona, along with Dr. Rigoberto Advincula, presented a keynote lecture at the European Coatings (EC) Conference Functional Coatings & Nanotechnology in Cologne, Germany (April 9-10). The talk highlighted the emerging significance of nanomaterials in high-performance coatings. They discussed the use of various nanomaterials, such as C-based nanomaterials, nanocellulose, nanosilica, and nanotubes, in creating smart surfaces with stimuli-responsive properties. Key applications included superhydrophobic and superlipophilic films, oil and water separations, anti-microbial properties, and de-icing capabilities. The lecture emphasized the commercial viability and advanced functionalities of nanostructured coatings, underscoring their potential in diverse high-performance applications. About EC Conference
NDSU Student Research Days Features Recent Work from CRG: The Use of Soybean as a Corrosion Inhibitor
Andrea, an undergraduate researcher at the CRG, presented a poster at the NDSU Student Research Days on April 9th. Their work, titled "Temperature-Dependent Corrosion Inhibition of Soybean Extract on Carbon Steel in Acidic Medium," is funded by the North Dakota Soybean Council to develop green innovative use-cases of soybeans. The work outlines the significant economic and environmental challenges posed by corrosion, and the need for sustainable, cost-effective solutions. The study examines soybean extract's efficacy as a corrosion inhibitor through various experimental analyses on carbon steel in acidic conditions. The results highlight soybean as potentially a viable and eco-friendly solution for corrosion mitigation across diverse industrial applications. Additionally, CRG post-doctoral fellow, Dr. Reymark Maalihan, served as a judge during the graduate student presentations at the NDSU event.
Dive into the Protective World of Coatings with the Caldona Research Group
The CRG from NDSU's Coatings and Polymeric Materials department recently hosted "The Protective World of Coatings" workshop at North Dakota State University's Avenues of Scientific Discovery event on April 6, 2024. Welcoming over 200 student participants from grades 5-12, the workshop showcased the significance of hydrophobic coatings in preventing material corrosion. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and hands-on activities, gaining valuable insights into coatings' role in enhancing material durability. The workshop, tailored for diverse audiences, aimed to foster an appreciation for coatings technology and inspire the next generation of material science enthusiasts. Through such initiatives, our mission of sowing the seeds for a future generation equipped with knowledge and curiosity has been poised to tackle real-world challenges with innovation and insight.
Second Phase Funding with ND Soybean Council Boosts Eco-Friendly Coating Initiative
In a collaborative move marking the second phase of funding, Dr. Caldona, with assistance from PhD Student, Roy has secured critical support from the North Dakota Soybean Council (NDSC) for advancing innovative applications of soybeans in the coating industry. Building on the resounding success of the initial phase started in 2023, this succeeding phase collaboration between academia and agriculture signifies a significant milestone in driving sustainable solutions forward. Dr. Caldona's visionary project aims to harness the inherent potential of soybeans to meet the escalating demand for eco-friendly coatings, further highlighting the pivotal role of agriculture in addressing pressing environmental challenges. This strategic continuing partnership not only promises economic prosperity for soybean farmers but also propels the journey towards a greener, more resilient future.
Flight Delay to Final Stage: Roy Perseveres at WAGS 3 Minute Thesis Competition
CRG PhD Student Marcel Roy Domalanta represented North Dakota State University at the 66th Annual Conference of the Western Association of Graduate Schools (WAGS) 3 Minute Thesis Competition, which was held March 20–22, 2024, virtually. Despite an unpredicted flight delay after their ACS Conference, Roy persevered, showcasing his research dedication. Placing second in his division, Roy advanced to the final round, competing against representatives from over 23 universities. His journey exemplifies resilience and grit, inspiring fellow researchers. As Roy faced off against contestants from diverse academic backgrounds and locations, his success highlights the caliber of research emerging from institutions nationwide. Beyond accolades, his experience underscores the importance of adaptability and determination in academic pursuits. Roy's journey serves as a reminder of the fortitude required to navigate challenges and excel in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
Caldona Research Group Showcased Their Works at ACS Spring 2024
The Caldona Research Group recently made their first major conference appearance at the ACS Spring 2024 conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, showcasing their hard-worked research under this Spring's theme 'Many Flavors of Chemistry.' With a lineup of six poster presentations and three oral presentations, the group captivated audiences with their innovative work. Notably, one of their poster presentations earned the prestigious honor of being selected for the Sci-Mix Interdivisional Poster Session, highlighting the group's excellence in the field. Their focus on fluoropolymer coatings, electrochemical approaches, and composite coatings highlights the group's commitment to advancing the boundaries of materials science. The Caldona Research Group's participation at ACS Spring 2024 showcases their dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and innovation in chemistry.
From Thesis to Triumph: Roy Clinches Victory in NDSU 3MT Competition
Marcel Roy Domalanta, PhD student of the CRG, won NDSU Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Roy paved the way for his presentation titled "Soy much better: Making non-stick materials stick." His work, funded by the North Dakota Soybean Council focused on harnessing soybean extracts to enhance the performance and safety of common household materials like cooking pans. 3MT challenges doctoral students to distill their extensive research into a concise and engaging narrative, accessible to a non-specialist audience. Roy's success highlights the significance of effective science communication and the potential impact of research on everyday life.
From Lab to Publication: Mark Rigel Ali's Research Sets New Standards
Mark Rigel Ali, alongside CRG members Szeemaine Tigno and Jackson Honeyman, has achieved a significant milestone with the publication of his first-author paper in ACS Applied Polymer Materials (Impact factor: 5.1). Their exciting study delves into the development of dual-coating systems aimed at enhancing corrosion resistance for stainless steel. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, they have uncovered crucial insights into the electrochemical behavior and adhesion properties of these coatings. Rigel's research not only fills a critical gap in our understanding of coating science but also lays the foundation for future innovations in corrosion protection. This achievement highlights the importance of collaborative research efforts in driving scientific progress and addressing real-world challenges. See more
Granting Innovation: Dr. Caldona Secures Funding from AMPP
Dr. Eugene Caldona's research endeavors have received a significant boost with the recent acquisition of project funding from the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) (The merging of NACE International and SSPC the Society for Protective Coatings in 2021). The prestigious Dr. A. John Sendriks Seed Grant Award for 2024 marks a pivotal moment in advancing materials science and corrosion expertise. AMPP is dedicated to advancing materials performance for the benefit of society and the environment. The CRG's projects aligns perfectly with their mission to promote safe, reliable, and sustainable materials. As the largest global community for corrosion and coatings expertise, AMPP's support underscores the importance of investing in innovative research. Dr. Caldona's receipt of the grant reflects his commitment to pushing the boundaries of materials science, paving the way for transformative solutions in asset protection and performance.
Global Talent Infusion: The Caldona Research Group Welcomes Dr. Reymark Maalihan
The Caldona Research Group is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Reymark Maalihan, hailing from the Philippines, to their team of esteemed researchers. With a robust academic background in Chemical Engineering from Batangas State University and the University of the Philippines, coupled with invaluable experience at Case Western Reserve University in the United States, Dr. Maalihan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to CRG. His research focus on polymers and polymer composites for coatings and additive manufacturing promises to enrich the group's endeavors in pushing the boundaries of material science. As CRG continues to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, Dr. Maalihan's arrival marks an exciting new chapter in their quest for scientific excellence.
Rising Star: Andrea Corrales Joins CRG in the NDSC Soybean Project
Andrea Corrales, an B.S. Biochemistry undergraduate student at North Dakota State University, has joined the Caldona Research Group as a part-time Undergraduate Research Assistant (URA). With a keen interest in biochemistry and a drive for scientific discovery, Andrea will contribute her efforts to CRG's Soybean Project, funded by the North Dakota Soybean Council. This project exemplifies the importance of cultivating young talent and fostering hands-on research experiences for undergraduate students. As Andrea embarks on this journey of exploration and innovation, she represents the next generation of researchers poised to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Second Publication for Rigel's First Year at NDSU CPM CRG
Rigel's co-authorship collaboration work with Shenzhen University and Zhejiang University in China titled "Cellulose nanocrystals-reinforced waterborne epoxy coatings with enhanced corrosion resistance for steel" has been published at Macromolecules, Impact Factor 8.2. The work addresses the limitations of waterborne epoxy coatings by reinforcing them with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). See more.
Rigel Publishes his First CRG Paper
Freshman PhD student of the CRG lab, Mark Rigel Ali, publishes his first minireview titled "Piezoelectric approaches to organic polymeric materials" published in Polymer International with an Impact Factor of 3.2. The mini-review paper focuses on the complex process of measuring piezoelectric properties in polymers, discussing various techniques and their advantages, limitations, and challenges. See more
CPM Seminar Spotlight: Szeemaine Showcases Innovative Research on Corrosion-Resistant Fluoropolymer Composite Coatings
PhD member of the CRG Lab, Szeemaine Tigno, presents her research work on enhancing corrosion resistance in mild steel using organo-modified montmorillonite in PVDF-HFP coatings. Her study demonstrated fluoropolymer improved adhesion and corrosion resistance, which were confirmed through ASTM tests and electrochemical measurements in a saline environment media.
Rigel Represents CRG Lab at the NDSU-KU Joint Symposium in Kagoshima, Japan
Mark Rigel Ali, a freshman PhD student, took part in the 8th NDSU-KU (Kagoshima University) Joint Symposium on Biotechnology, Nanomaterials, and Polymers and Workshop in Japan. He presented his research on fluoropolymer coatings for corrosion protection. He also got the opportunity to engage discussions and initiate collaborations with various researchers in the field. See more
CPM Seminar Spotlight: Rigel's Research Works
PhD student of the group, Mark Rigel Ali, presented his talk entitled "Electroconductive polymer-primed fluoropolymer coatings for corrosion protection". His work investigated the effectiveness of a dual-layer coating system comprised of an electrodeposited conductive polymer undercoat and poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) topcoat, mainly for corrosion protection applications.
Dr. Mark Nichols of Ford Motor Company Visits the CRG Lab
Dr. Nichols had a lab tour and a small discussion with the team before giving his seminar titled "Perspectives on Automotive Paint Weathering". His current research is focused on automotive coatings and battery manufacturing. He is currently the Manager of the Coatings and Surfaces Research Dept. at the Ford Motor Company, and the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Coatings Technology and Research (Springer).
Jackson Showcases Innovative Polymer Coatings at the PICNICS Program Presentation
Jackson's work introduces polythiophene coatings for eco-friendly corrosion protection and efficient oil removal. These coatings, applied via electrodeposition, inhibit oxidation reactions on metal surfaces while selectively absorbing oil on porous substrates, offering a sustainable solution to environmental challenges. See more
Roy - The Newest PhD Addition to the CRG Stronghold of Talents
Marcel Roy Domalanta, M.Sc. has joined the CRG for his Ph.D. in Coatings and Polymeric Materials. With a rich background as a Research Fellow in the PCARI Project CIPHER at the University of the Philippines Diliman, and an accomplished academic record including a cum laude B.S. in Chemical Engineering and an M.S. under a DOST ERDT scholarship, Roy brings extensive expertise in energy storage and sustainable technologies. His focus on water-splitting electrocatalysts, fuel cell technologies, energy storage solutions, and multiphysics modeling will undoubtedly enrich the group's research pursuits.
Dr. Caldona Leads in Material Science and Polymer Chemistry through Balik Scientist Program
In June to July 2023, Dr. Caldona participated in the Philippines' Balik Scientist Program, a key initiative of the Department of Science and Technology Metals Industry Research and Development Center. He shared his extensive expertise in material science and polymer chemistry, contributing significantly to the field and inspiring future scientific endeavors.
Army Support for Science: Dr. Caldona Secures Another Project Funding
Dr. Eugene Caldona, CRG PI, has achieved a significant milestone in securing project funding from the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center's (ERDC) Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL). As part of ERDC's mission to address complex challenges in engineering and environmental sciences, this collaboration marks a pivotal moment in advancing innovative solutions. With their backing, the CRG can explore new frontiers and contribute to solving critical issues facing our nation. ERDC's commitment to becoming a global leader in engineering and environmental sciences underscores the importance of investing in groundbreaking research for sustainable coatings. As Dr. Caldona and the team join this venture, the partnership with ERDC promises to yield transformative outcomes for both military and civilian applications, shaping a brighter future for all.
Dr. Eugene Caldona Led a Short Course on Corrosion at CoatingsTech Conference 2023
Organized by the American Coatings Association, in Cleveland, OH, Dr. Caldona's expertise in the field provided the attendees valuable insights into developing and applying cutting-edge, corrosion-resistant coatings. The course was designed to benefit professionals and researchers in the coatings industry, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, and aims to foster innovation and enhance the quality of corrosion protection in various industries.
Horace High School Student Jackson Honeyman Joins CRG
Jackson Honeyman, a high school student from Horace High School, joins the Caldona Research Group this summer as part of the NDSU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department's PICNICS (Parents Involvement with Children, Nurturing Intellectual Curiosity in Science) Summer Program. The PICNICS program is designed to expose high school students to research in the chemical sciences and stimulate their interest in science and math. It aims to integrate parents and their children in scientific exploration, encouraging ninth through 12th graders to consider careers in science. Jackson's participation highlights the program's commitment to nurturing young scientific minds and fostering future innovators.
Sakiru Joins Caldona Research Group for Ph.D. in Coatings and Polymeric Materials
Sakiru Adeleke has recently joined the Caldona Research Group at North Dakota State University as a Ph.D. candidate in Coatings and Polymeric Materials. With a solid foundation in Materials Science and Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University and International Islamic University Malaysia, Sakiru brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. His diverse interests, ranging from mixed martial arts to fine dining, add a unique perspective to the group. Sakiru's expertise and multifaceted background are expected to contribute significantly to the group's research in advanced coatings and polymer science.
CRG PhD Students Rigel and Szeemaine Showcase Innovative Coatings Research at Student Research Day 2023
PhD students Rigel and Szeemaine presented at NDSU's Student Research Day 2023, with their poster exhibitions on innovative fluoropolymer coatings for corrosion protection. This day-long event, a collaborative effort by NDSU EXPLORE, Gamma Sigma Delta, and the Graduate Student Council, celebrated the ingenuity and dedication of NDSU's brightest minds, providing a dynamic platform for students to share their groundbreaking work.
Dr. Caldona Garners Best Academic Presentation at the 265th ACS National Meeting
At the 265th American Chemical Society National Meeting in Indianapolis, March 2023, Dr. Caldona received acclaim for his outstanding presentation in the Stephen Clarson Memorial Symposium. His talk, delved into fluoropolymers' innovative applications in oil/water separation and anti-icing. This recognition highlights Dr. Caldona's significant contribution to the field of material science and his exciting research in developing advanced, practical solutions for environmental challenges.
Soybean Innovation Funded: NDSC Backs CRG Research for Sustainable Coatings
In a collaboration between academia and agriculture, Dr. Caldona has secured funding from the North Dakota Soybean Council (NDSC) to explore innovative applications of soybeans in the coating industry. With a mission to innovate and expand opportunities for North Dakota soybean growers, the NDSC's support signifies a significant step towards realizing a sustainable future. Dr. Caldona's project aims to tap into the surging demand for green buildings, a market ripe for soybean-based solutions. The versatility, coupled with their eco-friendly properties, opens up a realm of possibilities for greener coating practices. This initiative not only promises economic benefits for soybean farmers but also underscores the pivotal role agriculture plays in addressing environmental challenges. By leveraging the potential of soybeans, CRG embarks on a journey towards building a greener, more resilient world.
Rigel and Szeemaine: Pioneering the Path in Coatings and Polymeric Materials at CRG
Spring 2023 marks a significant milestone for the Caldona Research Group (CRG), as it welcomes its pioneering Ph.D. students, Mark Rigel Ali and Szeemaine Tigno. Rigel, with a B.S. and M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Saint Louis University and the University of the Philippines Diliman respectively, is poised to make significant contributions in the field of coatings and polymeric materials. Szeemaine, also a graduate in Chemical Engineering from the same institutions, joins him with a fresh perspective and a strong academic foundation. Their joint venture into advanced research signifies the growth and diversification of the CRG, setting a promising trajectory for future discoveries and innovations in material science.
The Inauguration of the Caldona Research Group (CRG) at NDSU's Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials
Dr. Eugene Caldona, Assistant Professor at NDSU, has established CRG in the Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials. The group, leveraging his expertise in various fields including corrosion science and polymer nanocomposites, aims to spearhead innovative research in coatings and materials science. CRG will focus on a variety of areas including corrosion science, electrochemistry, surface chemistry, additive manufacturing, and polymer nanocomposites, among others.