October 2018 Student of the Month
Collin “Cotton” Pekol
Junior
When and where was your undergraduate research experience?
In the summer of 2018, I worked with the asphalt binder group at Paragon Technical Services in Richland, Mississippi.
Tell us about your research.
I studied various asphalt binders and how their rheological properties varied due to differences in processing and the introduction of polymer additives. These properties were determined by methods such as dynamic shear rheometry, bending beam rheometry, rotational viscosity testing, and direct tension testing. One particularly interesting project I took part in was a study of tribology. In the study, neat (or unmodified) and modified binders were evaluated as lubricants by rotational testing in a dynamic shear rheometer.
How did the experience benefit you?
As a part of Paragon’s binder group, I worked with researchers and technicians with years of experience in the field. They were invaluable mentors and I learned much from them in terms of science and industry. Most research conducted was highly specific to asphalt, but I also learned much about polymer science and laboratory practices. Additionally, I have since become familiar with many new types of testing and instrumentation not typically seen or discussed in the classroom.
Do you have any advice for other students considering undergraduate research?
Every good relationship you establish with professors, upperclassmen, and even your peers can open incredible doors of opportunity for you. For myself as well as many of my peers, undergraduate research is an unparalleled opportunity to learn outside the classroom and see what “real life” materials science and engineering is all about. Not only has research increased my understanding of MSE as a whole, but I have also met incredible people and made many friends in my work.
What else are you involved in?
On campus, I am an undergraduate teaching assistant for Honors Engineering Fundamentals. I remember being very impressed that first year with the professors and their dedicated team of TA’s. Now, two years later, I have an opportunity to “give back” to that class and those same professors. I am still relatively new in the position, but I already recognize it as a valuable experience with yet another dedicated team. If you want to chat about research, asphalt, or being a TA, I’m always around Ferris!
