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CNR Internal Resources

Research Awards and Grants (April 2023)

May 4, 2023

Each month College of Natural Resources faculty receive awards and grants from various federal, state, and nongovernmental agencies in support of their research. This report recognizes the faculty who received funding in April 2023.

Development of a Capacitive Deionization Module via Tailored Clean Carbon Materials and its Optimal Analysis (4th year)

  • PI: Park, Sunkyu 
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Siontech co., Ltd.
  • Awarded Amount: $75,001.00 
  • Abstract:  Development of graphite foil for water membrane application. Biomass will be graphitized, exploited, and then pressed into a foil structure. Key properties will be tensile strength, electric resistance, and thickness.

Southern Forest Resource Assessment Consortium (SOFAC) Membership

  • PI: Baker, Justin Scott
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Drax Corporate
  • Awarded Amount: $30,000.00  
  • Abstract:  The Southern Forest Resource Assessment Consortium (SOFAC) will develop forest sector market models for application to forest resource assessments in the South, U.S., and the World. SOFAC will integrate currently available forest resource data from the USDA Forest Service, Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program and economic theory to model timber supply and demand in the South by local area. SOFAC economic models will allow use of exogenous or endogenous inputs about supply, demand, land use change, and landowner behavior in the analysis of timber and forest land markets and management. SOFAC modelers and members will be able to use the SOFAC suite of models and research to simultaneously project timber inventory, supply, and prices for a variety of regions and a variety of timber products across the South, the U.S., and the World. SOFAC will foster discussion among modelers and members about the appropriate inputs and assumptions in forest projection models and employ these in building timber supply models and timber supply scenarios that represent likely conditions. SOFAC will continue cooperative university-industry-public agency cooperation in southern and national forest sector economic modeling. SOFAC will enhance graduate instruction in forest economics and modeling in the South.

North Carolina Military Affairs Commission 2023-26 NCSU Project

  • PI: Bardon, Robert E.
  • Direct Sponsor Name: NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
  • Amount Awarded: $120,000.00 

Abstract: This proposal for $40,000 is continued funding toward ongoing program development of the North Carolina Sentinel Landscape (ENCSL) Partnership and activities within the ENCSL Partnership. The effort of this request assembles existing work performed by NC State University under the project: Coordination of the Sentinel Partnership (North Carolina Military Affairs Commission 2018-19 NCSU Project (NCDA 19-036-4002).

Conference: Science and Ethics of De-extinction at SXSW

  • PI: Delborne, Jason Aaron
  • Direct Sponsor Name: National Science Foundation (NSF)
  • Awarded Amount: $2,868.00 
  • Abstract: This proposal to the Science and Technology Studies Program will support Jason Delborne’s travel to the NSF-organized panel. Panelists were asked to attend the conference and spend time before and after the organized meeting at SXSW in order to interact with participants informally and at the NSF booth.

Planning the 2024 North American Forest Ecology Workshop in Asheville, North Carolina

  • PI: Forrester, Jodi A.
  • Direct Sponsor Name: US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service
  • Awarded Amount: $25,000.00 
  • Abstract:   The mission of the North American Forest Ecology Workshops (NAFEW) is to bring researchers, academicians, and managers together to foster dialogue and discussion of current issues related to basic and applied research in forested ecosystems in North America. We will host the 15th Biannual North American Forest Ecology Workshop in Asheville, NC in June 2024.

Innovations Toward Seedless Stone Fruits

  • PI: Wang, Jack 
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Pairwise 
  • Amount Awarded: $27,930.00 
  • Abstract: A project to determine the lignin content and composition of ~10 plant samples (primarily endocarp) to inform genetic strategies for reducing or eliminating lignin in stone fruits.

Mutated-Modeling and Understanding Using Temporal Analysis of Transient Earth Data Phase II

  • PI: Gray, Joshua Michael
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Accenture Federal Services LLC
  • Awarded Amount: $278,322.00 
  • Abstract: We propose to build a system producing near-real time SMART data cubes for broad area search to identify candidate areas of change. The system can, then, isolate these areas of interest and create an enhanced SMART data cube around them maximizing spatial resolution and temporal completeness as needed. This architecture can be used for forensic analysis and change monitoring of current events with the possibility to tip-and-cue complementary future imagery products (e.g., through new tasking) to build such enhanced SMART data cube in operational settings. From this proposed research we envision an outcome that shall consist of a product that analyzes and screens over a broad area and is used to task and/or collect as much high-resolution commercial imagery available or complementary imagery to do change detection, attribution, and characterization (DAC) that can generate alerts for current events, as well as produce comprehensive forensic reports from completed activities or events. The broad area search will identify hotspots and will provide context on what data sources should be used to build the enhanced SMART data cube. We will conduct research to determine the optimal configuration of both near-real time and enhanced SMART data cubes (e.g., optimal GSD for near-real time and enhanced cubes, data sources to satisfy temporal requirements, number of spectral bands needed to detect change in large areas, etc.). Our data fusion framework shall support fusion of very diverse data sources (e.g., WorldView-1,2,3, Sentinel-2, Landsat, and other commercial providers) to conduct these experiments, as well as supporting consumption of new tasking.

Interdisciplinary Energy Data Analytics Ph.D. Fellows Program Phase II: Training the Next Generation of Energy Data Scholars

  • PI: Vukomanovic, Jelena 
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Duke University
  • Awarded Amount: $12,756.00 
  • Abstract: The project will entail construction of an accessible, agent-based traffic flow model designed to evaluate and test the resilience and robustness of EV charging infrastructure under varying evacuation scenarios. I will first use the tool to conduct a case study on EV charging capacity along Interstate-40 from coastal to central North Carolina, specifically looking at how well existing capacity supports current as well as possible future levels of EV adoption across three different evacuation scenarios. I will then leverage a generalized version of the model to identify what parameters and parameter interactions are most important to ensuring that EV infrastructure can sufficiently support EV needs in emergency evacuation scenarios. I will also investigate how the temporal and spatial distribution of traffic contributes to the ability of infrastructure to support EV needs. 

Genome Editing for Superior Fiber Feedstocks, SAFI Consortium Enhancement Project

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: TreeCo
  • Awarded Amount: $252,685.00 
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles. This enhancement project aligns with the goals and mission of SAFI and aims to harbor novel genome editing technologies to advance the development of new fiber feedstocks with unique properties to improve pulp production.

Plate Rigidity Improvement via Materials Engineering and Simulation

  • PI: Pal, Lokendra 
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Hoffmaster Group, Inc.
  • Awarded Amount: $260,000.00 
  • Abstract: There is a pressing need for biodegradable disposable food service items due to bans on single-use plastic items and environmental concerns. We will develop biobased engineered materials and designs solutions utilizing biopolymers, finite element analysis, and laminate structures. Biopolymers such as starch with functional additives will be evaluated to enhance physical and mechanical characteristics such as density, rigidity, tensile to weight ratio. Further, laminated structures will be developed utilizing biobased adhesives and a spray coating system to enhance paperboard structural integrity while creating an assortment of low-cost variable caliper substrates. Furthermore, FEA will be conducted to understand how the plate structure reacts to specific loading and thermal stresses. Finally, the combination of board types, additives, and processing parameters such as forming temperature will be evaluated to provide a critical understanding of the runnability during the converting operation and functionality of the final products. 

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Full Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: TreeCo
  • Awarded Amount: $126,000.00 
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles.

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Affiliate Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: National Bamboo
  • Awarded Amount: $10,000.00 
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles.

Developing Integrated Geospatial Architectures to Support Enterprise Deployment of Geographic Information Systems Products at USDA

  • PI: Jones, Christopher Michael
  • Direct Sponsor Name: US Dept. of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service (USDA ARS)
  • Awarded Amount: $400,000.00 
  • Abstract: The primary purpose of this agreement is to cooperatively develop a framework to allow for integration of geospatial information systems as well as geospatial products into a Geospatial Hub hosted within an existing platform at USDA.  All constituent parts of USDA (mission areas, agencies, services) have geospatial investments and use.  There is a need for a platform to 1. communicate the impact of geospatial programs and 2. allow for data sharing within USDA and between USDA, academia, private sector, other Federal agencies, and the public.  

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Affiliate Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Bast Fibre Technologies Inc.
  • Awarded Amount: $ 0
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles. 

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Affiliate Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: University of British Columbia
  • Awarded Amount: $ 0
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles. 

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Full Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Suzano Pulp and Paper America
  • Awarded Amount: $126,000.00 
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles. 

Membership in Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), Full Member

  • PI: Gonzalez, Ronalds Wilfredo
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Georgia Pacific Consumer Operations LLC
  • Awarded Amount: $60,000.00 
  • Abstract: The purpose of the Consortium on Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) is to develop fundamental and applied research on the use of alternative and sustainable fibers for the manufacturing of market pulp, hygiene products and nonwovens. The idea for SAFI has grown out of societal needs for alternative yet sustainable materials. SAFI will study the potential of alternative fibers based on technical (performance), sustainable and economic principles. 

AI-Enabled Hyperspectral Imaging Augmented with Multi-Sensory Information for Rapid/Real-time Analysis of Non-Recyclable Heterogeneous MSW for Conversion to Energy

  • PI: Pal, Lokendra 
  • Direct Sponsor Name: US Dept. of Energy (DOE) – Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE)
  • Awarded Amount: $1,001,531.00 
  • Abstract: This project will focus on rapid/real-time analysis of domestic heterogeneous municipal biomass waste utilizing AI-Enabled Hyperspectral Imaging for developing conversion ready feedstock into cost effective and sustainable biofuel for selling price under $2.50 per gallon gasoline equivalent (GGE) by 2030. Municipal solid waste (MSW) is considered as an abundant potential source for biomass. This biomass, if used as a feedstock for fuel conversion operation will promote the sustainable fuel production and lower the prices. The heterogeneity of the MSW based on locations and time period can affect the biofuels or bioproducts. Therefore, the characterization of the MSW feedstock at macro and microlevel in terms of chemical and physical composition, at different speeds of conveyor system, at different times and collection sites will be studied.

Participatory Action Research for Implementation of the Biological Planning Foundations of Strategic Habitat Conservation for the National Wildlife Refuge System

  • PI: Cubbage, Frederick W.
  • Direct Sponsor Name: US Geological Survey (USGS)
  • Awarded Amount: $46,478.00 
  • Abstract: We propose to use Participatory Action Research approaches to cooperate with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Refuge Southeast Region Inventory and Monitoring program in order to establish and assess the biological planning foundations for Strategic Habitat Conservation for the Refuge units of the Southeast Region, with an emphasis on developmental approaches and outcomes for Resources of Concern and Management Objectives, as established by NWRS Policy 620 FW1, under the authority of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act.  

LSU Superfund Research Center – Environmentally Persistent Free Radicals

  • PI: Bryant, Jennifer Richmond
  • Direct Sponsor Name: Louisiana State University
  • Amount Awarded: $706,985.00 
  • Abstract: AERMOD is the most widely applied U.S. EPA regulatory model to predict the dispersion of airborne pollutants from a point source. The Iowa Superfund Research Program (ISRP) has extensive experience running AERMOD, the primary model used by ISRP to predict airborne PCB congener concentrations. The applicants research at the Louisiana State University Superfund Research Program (LSU SRP) consists of performing spatial and statistical modeling of particulate matter components to understand exposure to emissions from an open burn/open detonation hazardous waste thermal treatment facility in rural Colfax, LA. As part of her dissertation, Ms. Martine Mathieu will develop a hybrid exposure assessment model integrating surface-level measurements with the AERMOD dispersion model to provide a robust prediction of concentrations as surrogates for estimated exposures. Drawing on ISRPs experience with AERMOD, the overarching objective of the Externship is to learn to predict air pollutant exposure using the AERMOD atmospheric dispersion model. This externship will enable the applicant to learn about requirements for model inputs, construction of AERMOD inputs, implementation of the model, and quality assurance of the results. With current research interests in hybrid approaches to spatial air pollution models, the new skills gained through the Externship will add value to Ms. Mathieu’s research career and professional goals. Furthermore, Ms. Mathieu’s experience through the KC Donnelly Externship will enhance long term collaboration between the LSU SRP and the ISRP through community engagement experiences and further research collaboration centered around modeling, including journal publications, that will provide insights for similar studies and comparable sites.