This project develops SMRcrete, an advanced construction material for small modular reactor deployment rooted in Louisiana's industrial strengths. The research extends into a broader advanced materials platform leveraging Louisiana's sulfur and mineral byproducts for industrial sealing, subsurface integrity, deepwater and pipeline protection, and long-lived infrastructure durability across multiple energy systems.
This project develops a total nitrosamine detector for amine-based carbon capture systems, strengthening LSU's capacity to support responsible CCUS deployment in Louisiana. The research has potential to expand into a broader environmental assurance and permitting-enablement framework supporting Class VI well implementation and regulatory confidence.
This project investigates the repurposing of idle oil and gas wells for subsurface thermal energy storage, integrating subsurface expertise with grid reliability and infrastructure reuse. The research aligns with the Energy Institute's goal of developing legacy-asset conversion strategies that support long-duration storage and industrial resilience in Louisiana.
This project evaluates the use of pyrolysis-derived carbon black as a material input for asphalt and road construction, integrating materials research with infrastructure resilience and industrial systems in Louisiana. The work supports the Energy Institute's efforts in circular carbon materials, connecting waste streams, engineered infrastructure inputs, and transportation durability.
This project examines public trust in nuclear energy with a focus on small modular reactors (SMRs), using surveys and social media analytics to understand public perceptions and governance challenges. The research supports the Energy Institute's role as a trusted source for energy governance in Louisiana, with potential to expand into broader public trust analysis across CCUS, hydrogen, carbon storage, and related energy infrastructure.
