Martensite Determination and Characterization Using Cross-Correlation EBSD

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Craig Daniels and Professor David Fullwood, Mechanical Engineering Introduction Electron Back-Scatter Diffraction (EBSD) is a microscopy technique that is used to characterize crystalline materials such as metals. An EBSD pattern taken at a given point can be used to easily characterize the crystal structure and orientation at that point. By examining EBSD patterns across an […]

Micro Four-line Probe to Test Lithium Ion Electrodes

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Andrew Cutler and Professor Brian Mazzeo, Electrical Engineering Purpose: To build a robust planar device that can take an in situ, non-destructive conductivity reading on thin cathode films. Introduction: Li-ion batteries are an omnipresent part of modern life. Because of their high energy density and performance after repeated cycles they have become the battery of […]

Characterization of the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament Utilizing an Improved Characterization Technique

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Kara Boatwright and Professor Anton Bowden, Mechanical Engineering Experts have found that 80% of Americans will experience some sort of back pain in their lives. It is a prevalent problem and further information about the motion of the spine is necessary in order to improve techniques of alleviating and someday curing back pain. Ligaments are […]

Mathematical and Computer Modeling of Piezoresistive, Nano- Composite, High Deflection Sensors

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R. Adam Bilodeau and Dr. David Fullwood, Mechanical Engineering Introduction Mechanical engineers are constantly seeking better ways to analyze structures and systems, including both flexible, biological materials and rigid, metal structures. However, accurate and inexpensive tools for measuring the changing length of highly flexible systems are difficult to come by. The BYU Nanocomposites research lab […]

Optimal Performance of an Emergency Bio-mass Cookstove

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Cameron Bell and Dr. Matthew Jones, Mechanical Engineering The development of a light woodstove that is able to be conveniently packed is of great importance for anyone in an emergency situation. The ability to purify water by boiling it, cook food, and reduce food weight by bringing dry ingredients could dramatically increase the chances of […]

CNT Adhesion

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Devan Anderson and Professor Brian Jensen, Mechanical Engineering Introduction Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) are grown on a silicon wafer that usually has had various metals deposited onto the surface. For many applications of CNTs it is desirable that the CNT arrays remain attached to the silicon wafer, however, thus far the CNT community has been unsuccessful […]

The Parent-Teacher Communication in Irapuato, Mexico

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Jonathan Welling and Professor Erin Whiting, Teacher Education Introduction This study explores the perspectives of parents and teachers in their roles facilitating their student’s education and on the parent-teacher communication in public high schools in Irapuato, Mexico. This research provides contextual information for educational stakeholders in the United States about the parent-teacher communication in Mexico […]

Effects of Explicit Print Referencing on the Print Awareness of a Child with Severe Disabilities

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Mallory Roberts and Professor Blake Hansen, Department of Special Education This great opportunity of being awarded an ORCA grant allowed me to pursue and share my research with others at an Applied Behavioral Analysis International Conference. I was able to take my research study and present it with many ABA professionals at the conference held […]

The Impact of Autism on Families: Topography and Function of Repetitive Behavior

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David Ball and Dr. Blake Hansen, Counseling Psychology and Special Education Introduction The prevalence of autism has received considerable media attention in recent years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently assessed the prevalence of autism in children and determined that one in 68 children have autism.1 Our study analyzed functional behavior in families […]

America’s Transition to New Healthcare Policy: Applying Airline Pricing Models to Healthcare Providers

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Westin Leavitt and Dr. Mark Hansen, Management Program Introduction As America’s healthcare industry becomes increasingly regulated under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the economic effects of regulation are still in question. One of the most puzzling questions is the price at which hospitals and clinics will charge for treatment. Because hospitals’ costs and prices are […]