Tuesday, May 15th, 2012 at 7 PM
Magic as Protoscience

Presented by:
Dr. Jeffe Boats, Associate Professor of Mathematics Chair of Mathematics,
Computer Science, and Software Engineering, University of Detroit Mercy

Ancient symbolisms and pre-scientific reasoning will be revealed in this talk, particularly with regard to the later development of chemistry and other sciences. Dr. Boats will present a historical view of alchemy as it relates to magic, chemistry, and general scientific thought. After the origins of alchemy are explored, he will describe its influences on modern science and fantasy fiction.

Aside from being an avid fan of symbols and their meaning, Boats teaches courses in Mathematics and Math Education, and conducts research in numerous areas of science, most notably an area of mathematics called Graph Theory. His work has applications to circuit design, cryptography, and intelligence/counterintelligence.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, June 19th, 2012 at 7 PM
What Happened to my Barbie Doll?

Understanding how Plastics Age in Museum Collections

Presented by:
Clara Deck, Senior Conservator
The Henry Ford, Dearborn, MI

This is the Age of Plastics and museums have been collecting modern materials for a long time. It is a Museum Conservator’s job to understand material deterioration and what can be done to preserve objects. Conservators rely on the long-term stability of many polymers for storage containers and adhesives. But what about “malignant plastics”? Learn about a few inherently unstable historical polymers that are causing nightmares for museums with modern collections.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, July 17th, 2012 at 7 PM
Household Waste
Is it Hazardous?

Presented by:
Mary Kay Heidtke, EHS Engineer
Magni Industries, Inc.

Garbage. You probably don’t think about it too much. However, what you don’t know can harm the environment. Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients are considered to be household hazardous waste (HHW). Products, such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, unused prescription medicines and pesticides, that contain potentially hazardous ingredients require special care when you dispose of them.

Improper disposal of HHW can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or in some cases putting them out with the trash. The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health. Many communities in the United States offer a variety of options for conveniently and safely managing HHW.

Learn about proper disposal options!

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, April 17th, 2012 at 7 PM
Who’s in my Lab?
Gibb’s Free Energy Meets the Ohm

Presented by:
Kevin O’Mara,
Owner of Midwest Analytical Services, Inc.

Midwest Analytical Services, Inc. (MAS) is known for material testing including wastewater, groundwater, wipes, hazardous waste, sludge, polymers, resins, asbestos, contaminated soil and air. Kevin O’Mara will discuss the dynamics of working together in a laboratory or other work settings. Adult spend a third of their lives at work on average. This talk will explore the psychology of the workplace at both scientific and non-scientific organizations.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 at 7 PM
The Role of Chemistry in the Development of Regional Styles of Beer and Ale

Presented by:
Mark Allen Thomson, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Chemistry,
Department of Physical Sciences, Ferris State University

Have you ever wondered about how beer is made and the role that chemistry or microbiology plays in the process? Dr. Mark Thomson, a.k.a. “the Professor of Brewology” will briefly discuss the basic process of beer fermentation from a small-scale perspective. From malting the barley and mashing the malt, through fermentation and conditioning, to packaging the finished product, particular attention will be paid to the role of chemistry in the development of regional beer styles and traditions. Connections will be made between steps in the process and results in the final product including color, bitterness, aroma, body, and taste. Many of these connections will illustrate the subtle, but important role that small chemical details can play.

Learn the science behind making beer and the art of distinguishing different beer styles.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, January 17th, 2012 at 7 PM
Chemists Without Borders

Presented by:
Meghann Murray

Chemists Without Borders is a non-governmental organization involved in international development work designed to solve humanitarian problems through chemistry and related activities. As a public benefit, non-profit organization, the primary goals of Chemists Without Borders include, but are not limited to: 1) providing affordable medicines and vaccines to those who need them most, 2) providing clean water through water purification technologies, 3) supporting sustainable energy technologies, 4) encouraging open access to scholarly chemistry research articles throughout the world, and 5) advocating a better understanding of chemistry through education.

Find out how you can get involved with Chemists Without Borders!!

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Thursday, December 1st, 2011 at 6:30 PM
Holiday Field Trip

Tour of T-Plex,
the Model T Automotive Heritage Complex, Inc.

Presented by:
Matthew J. Mio, Ph.D., Associate Professor,
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Detroit Mercy

Join Brewing Chemistry for a tour of T-Plex, the original Ford Piquette Avenue plant. Our guest speaker will be Guy Wicker, Ph.D. who will be presenting a historical and current view of battery chemistry as it relates to vehicles. The basics of electrochemistry and batteries will be discussed while viewing various Model Ts and other Piquette-era Fords!!

The Ford Piquette Avenue plant is well preserved and largely unchanged from its original 1904 appearance. The exterior of the building is immediately recognizable as the same building shown in early photographs - still in its original red brick, complete with original fire escapes and windows. A visit to the third floor is like stepping back in time. One is immediately impressed by how much it resembles the operating plant of 1905. It is virtually unchanged. The third floor has never been painted since Ford Motor Company left in 1910.

Please RSVP for this event by November 25th!!!

$10 per person will be collected at the beginning of the tour.
The tour begins at 6:30 P.M. The T-Plex is located at 461 Piquette St., Detroit, MI 48201.
For directions, visit www.tplex.org

Contact Meghann at 313-993-1259 or meghann@brewingchemistry.com to RSVP

Tuesday, November 15th, 2011 at 7 PM
Breaking Bad Chemistry

‘Breaking Bad’ and the ‘CSI Effect:’
Chemistry and Television during the Geek Revolution

Presented by:
Matthew J. Mio, Ph.D., Associate Professor,
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Detroit Mercy

Matthew J. Mio will discuss the effect of recent media, with an emphasis on such popular TV shows as ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,’ on the public perception of Chemistry in the United States and worldwide. Do positive or negative portrayals of Chemists influence the career choices of today’s youth? Has Geek Culture glorified the practice of science or encumbered it? Stop by this month’s “Brewing Chemistry” to join in the discussion!

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, October 18th, 2011 at 7 PM
Bugs in your Water?

Determining Water Pollution through Bug Hunts

Presented by:
Peter J. Benz, Water Pollution Inspector,
Wayne County Department of the Environment, Water Quality Management Division

Peter J. Benz will discuss Bug Hunts as a high quality water pollution evaluation system. 'Made in Detroit' Benz, a Family Patriarch, is the Vice- Chairman of the Friends of the Detroit River & SSG US Army Retired. He will use a 'Power Point' created by Susan Thomson, WCDOE Coordinator of Bug Hunts & will be assisted by his former work partner Sushy Valikodath, Chemist WDOE Land Management Division.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 at 7 PM
Emergency Management

Presented by:
Kenneth Bresnan,
Area Coordinator for the National Disaster Medical System in Michigan

The National Disaster Medical System is a partnership among four federal agencies and private community hospitals that provides a medical contingency back-up system to protect the health of the nation’s citizenry during catastrophic events. Kenneth Bresnan, Area Emergency Manager for the Department of Veterans Affairs and Area Coordinator for the National Disaster Medical System in Michigan will give you detailed information on what constitutes a disaster, to what major threats is this nation prepared to respond, and how local, county, state and federal agencies interact with Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) during cataclysmic events. Mr. Bresnan will also detail why The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is such a very powerful agency, provide constitutional background on who will command those Black Helmeted Guys in Chemical Suits during the next OUTBREAK, and dispel any rumors that the government has a secret plan to combat a zombie outbreak. The presentation will be fun and interesting, and include a “FILL IN THE BLANK” questionnaire for a true classroom experience.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, August 16th, 2011 at 7 PM
What is a Watt?

The Economics, Science, Engineering, & Politics of Energy

Presented by:
Kevin O’Mara,
Owner of Midwest Analytical Services, Inc.

Midwest Analytical Services, Inc. (MAS) is known for material testing including wastewater, groundwater, wipes, hazardous waste, sludge, polymers, resins, asbestos, contaminated soil and air. Recently, Kevin O’Mara has researched the use of alternative energy in his laboratory facility. He has installed solar panels, wind turbines, and a solar thermal extraction tube system at MAS. Kevin will describe how these systems were incorporated and how the energy has been converted to help offset electrical costs.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 at 7 PM
Biodegradability Testing Services at NSF International

Presented by:
Pat Davison, Senior Project Manager,
Engineering Research Services
NSF International, Ann Arbor MI

In response to emerging environmental concerns, companies are designing a variety of products and packaging materials to degrade after they are discarded. The presentation will provide a summary of the different types of testing services currently conducted by NSF International designed to help companies generate independent, third-party data from an accredited testing laboratory to substantiate the product’s degradability performance claims.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 7 PM
Analytical and Therapeutic Applications of Gold Nanoparticles

Presented by:
Bulent Mutus, Ph.D., Professor and Research Chair
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, ON

The talk will present the recent work from the Mutus Lab on the use of gold nanoparticle-based reagents for detecting hydrogen sulfide and the identification of thiol residues in proteins that are susceptible to modification. In addition, the design and testing of gold nanocomposite-based nitric oxide releasing bandages for wound healing applications will be described.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7 PM
Could Forensics get More Students to Major in Science?

Presented by:
Anthony Sky, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Department of Natural Sciences, Lawrence Technological University

In 2004, the National Science Board claimed that there is a decline in the number of American students training to be scientists and this could threaten the economic welfare and security of our country. Others say, large numbers of aspiring science majors, perhaps as many as half, are turned off by unimaginative teaching and change their majors before graduating. In 2007 the TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) results, indicated that 44% of American High School Juniors where not proficient in science.

Join Anthony Sky, Professor of Chemistry, as he opens his forensic files to reveal a few of the tactics he has employed to engage more student in science.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at 6:30 PM
Tour of Traffic Jam & Snug

A behind the scenes look at the science of brewing beer and making cheese

Since 1965, the Traffic Jam & Snug has been one of Detroit's hidden treasures. They are known throughout Midtown for their in-house bakery, microbrewery, and dairy, their curiously intimate multi-level dining rooms, and an eclectic menu of made-from-scratch dishes. They only use the best, freshest ingredients. Each day, their bakery turns out a new Bread of the Day, from authentic ethnic crusted rolls and vegetable breads to whole grain sourdoughs and cheese loaves. A shamefully delicious selection of pies, cakes, and cookies are made there too, not to mention their very own hot fudge and ice cream.

Their award-winning cheeses and beers are a local favorite. They actually use the same equipment for brewing beer and making cheese. On December 18, 1992, after a decade-long legal battle, Michigan became the last Midwest state to enact a brewpub law. Traffic Jam became the first brew-pub in the state of Michigan. Since then, the Traffic Jam has been brewing an uncommon, ever-changing selection of hand-crafted beers.

Traffic Jam & Snug uses its homemade cheese, beer and baked goods in the restaurant. You can also buy the cheese -- including the Asiago varieties -- and bakery items to take home. Or find them at a local farmer's markets, including Eastern Market on Saturdays and Royal Oak on Fridays.

Join us to explore and sample the chemistry of beer brewing and cheesemaking! The tour will begin at 6:30 PM, but feel free to stay for dinner after.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 7 PM
Elemental Analysis of Kelp Dietary Supplements

Presented by:
Danielle Garshott
University of Detroit Mercy

Herbal kelp has become a popular dietary supplement. Some types of seaweed and other aquatic plants have a high affinity for heavy metal uptake and have even been used for bioremediation. Current research has shown that some kelp products have been contaminated with arsenic and other heavy metals. Herbal supplements are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but not as strictly as drugs or foods.

Garshott collected seventeen kelp dietary supplements, purchased from local health food or drug stores, to analyze by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy. The supplements were examined for the presence of arsenic, lead, and mercury. Before analysis of the sample set, a series of standards for were created, because established NIST standards for such food supplements do not appear to exist. The findings for these items will be presented along with the method for heavy metal standards production.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 7 PM
FilterPave® Porous Paving System
An Innovative Hard Surface Pavement Using Recycled Glass

Presented by:
David Bower, Ph.D., Senior Research Chemist
BASF Corporation

Billions of gallons of untreated stormwater pollute our lakes rivers and oceans every year. Conventional concrete and asphalt pavements concentrate these pollutants at the storm drains. Whether it is through a combined sanitary sewer system or a local detention pond, treatment is expensive. In most areas the stormwater remains untreated allowing the pollutants to flow directly into our waterways.

The Filterpave® system provides several advances over traditional hard surface pavements which address these and other environmental issues in an attractive and cost-effective manner. It combines specially treated post-consumer recycled glass with a two component polyurethane binder to create a porous pavement that captures stormwater allowing it to slowly migrate into the soil. This nearly eliminates stormwater runoff and helps replenish the local aquifer with clean, naturally filtered water.

The porosity of Filterpave pavement allows air and water to flow through the composite so it will not hold heat like conventional materials reducing the “heat island effect”. This pavement is appropriate for parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, patios, golf cart paths and other light to medium duty traffic areas,. The components are processed using conventional construction equipment and the installed pavement is easy to repair if damaged. FilterPave pavement is aesthetically pleasing and is offered in several colors providing opportunities for unique site design alternatives.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 7 PM
Contrast Agents:
Exploring the Chemistry of MRI and Asymmetric Catalysis

Presented by:
Matthew J. Allen, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Department of Chemistry, Wayne State University

Research in the Allen laboratory is focused on the lanthanide chemistry of contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and catalysts for aqueous asymmetric bond formation. He will present the chemistry behind how contrast agents for MRI work and how his group is working to improve contrast agents using chemistry in an interdisciplinary way. Specifically, Matt Allen will talk about his work with divalent europium and with binuclear lanthanide complexes as potential advanced contrast agents. These strategies could produce contrast agents that are effective where current agents are not.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010 at 6:30 PM
Holiday Field Trip
Mind Body & Spirits Tour and Dinner

Join Brewing Chemistry for a tour of Mind Body & Spirits, downtown Rochester's new eco- conscious restaurant. Mind Body & Spirits is a certified Organic eatery with a vast selection of yummy food and libations. Their menu plainly defines the dishes that are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free. They also put effort into creating their dishes for simple removal of any items that might be objectionable to the food-conscious or food-sensitive diner. Even most of the drinks are organic and they feature locally made beer, wine, and liquor.

Mind Body & Spirits is located in a 100+ year old building which was renovated using many of the latest and century old technologies to operate as sustainable as possible. The building tour will include learning about harnessing solar energy in many forms, from the PV (Photo Voltaic) solar panels that power the building to the solar hot water panels and the passive solar (Trombe wall & Solar water tubes) in their onsite greenhouse. The building is heated and cooled by a Geo thermal system that consists of (20) 200 ft deep wells. Mind Body & Spirits also has an extensive recycling and repurposing programs including their bio digester that turns all of their food waste into a nutrient rich soil fertilizer.

Please RSVP for this event by December 3rd!!!

The Dutch-treat dinner and tour begins at 6:30 P.M.
Mind Body & Spirits is located at 301 South Main Street in Downtown Rochester.
For directions, visit http://www.mindbodyspirits.com/

Tuesday, November 16th, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Brewing Chemistry
The Chemistry of Alcohol Production

Presented by:
Guy Wicker, Ph.D.

Beer is one of the world’s oldest beverages and has played an important role in our society. There is an art to the science of brewing beer and producing alcohol. The brewing process is made of several key steps that can be altered to yield a unique taste. Guy Wicker will discuss what chemicals are in your brew and what they do to you. General fermentation techniques and outcomes will be presented along with yeast metabolism, organic by-products, aging, and distillation. Brewing obstacles such as ethanol cleanliness and bacteria will also be addressed.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, October 19th, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Forensic Toxicology For Chemists*
An Informal Discussion of the non-CSI World of Forensic Science
(*···· And Anyone Interested, Curious, with an open Calendar, or Just Passing By)

Presented by:
Gary W. Kunsman, Ph.D., DABFT
Chief Forensic Toxicologist, Oakland County Medical Examiner

OJ Simpson, CSI, Law and Order and other popularizers of Forensic Science, the significant advances in DNA analytical technology, massive increases in funding for law enforcement related/directed DNA Laboratories, and the proliferation of University Forensic Science programs (both Undergraduate and Graduate) have produced an increasingly large population of largely misinformed and ill-informed people concerning the specific nature and practice of the Forensic Sciences. This presentation will focus on the general field of Forensic Toxicology and the specific subdivisions encompassed within that discipline: Postmortem Toxicology, Behavioural Toxicology, and Forensic Urine Drug Testing (FUDT). The format of this presentation is intentionally informal so as to provide participants the greatest opportunity to become acquainted with this area of Forensic Science and allow them to pursue areas of general and current interest to the population represented; potential examples of which may range from the use, analytic methodologies employed, and behavioural effects associated with the use of Alcohol related to Automobile Driving or the recently passed law allowing the use of Marijuana as a medicant, the period of time following drug use during which a positive Urinalysis result may occur, etc.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, September 21st, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Hair Care: High Science or Fluff Bunny Chemistry?

Presented by:
Jay G. Otten, Ph.D., BASF Corporation

The focus will be on the science of healthy & good looking hair. High powered microscopic images of healthy and damaged hair and the impact of the chemical industry on maintaining healthy, well groomed hair will be shown. Technologies include shampoos, conditioning agents, and other products. Differences in ethnic hair and treatment thereof will be described, and future consumer desires will be shared.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, Auguts 17th, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Can A Wet Paper Towel Burn?

Presented by:
Jeffrey L. Finnan, Ph.D.

High school chemistry would have been much more entertaining if Jeff Finnan had been our teacher. Jeff Finnan also known as “Dr. J.,” is not your typical teacher. He has a 20-year background in corporate research and development in the vitamin and fragrance & flavor industries. Dr. J. inspires his students through engaging lectures and exciting chemical demonstrations. One of his favorites is liquid nitrogen. You can participate with him as does his students exploring the history and use of liquid nitrogen as well as the states of matter.

But wait? What about that paper towel? A wet one burning? How could we do it with only the paper towel itself as fuel? How does liquid nitrogen figure into this? Come see to find out what and how.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 - 7:00 PM
They Called it ‘Smoked Sausage’

Presented by:
Norm Howe, Ph.D
Sr. Partner, Validation & Compliance Institute

Do you enjoy good food? Do you like going to a great restaurant with your friends and forgetting about your worries for an evening? How do you know if that food is fit to eat? How would you tell if a pill that you are going to take is safe and effective? If you take your child for a vaccination how do you know that the syringe is sterile? How do you know if your pet's food contains every nutrient needed to sustain life?

There are people who worry about those questions so you don't have to. They work for the US Food and Drug Administration. US FDA regulates food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices; about 25% of US GDP. But there was a time when FDA didn't exist. There was a time when you really did have to worry about what your were eating.

This is the story about how and why FDA came into existence. Unfortunately we weren't proactive in creating FDA, so this tale gets a bit graphic. It spans the time when America was becoming the world's first continental economy. It includes the first introduction of science into food and drug production. It tells why so many people died.

In this time of increasing federal deficits we are witnessing extreme controversy over the role of government. It costs a lot of money to regulate 25% of the US economy, both in tax dollars to support the agency but even more in corporate costs to comply with the law. Is it worth it? We will look at the development of one agency, FDA. You be the judge whether this story can be generalized to other agencies.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, June 15, 2010 - 7:00 PM
How Chemistry has Changed the Yo-Yo

Presented by:
Steve Scribner,
Ph.D, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Yo-yo performer and collector
Marygrove College, Detroit, MI

Brewing Chemistry explores material science and the development of the yo-yo. Traditionally a wooden toy made from various hardwoods, the yo-yo has undergone significant changes as different plastics and metals have been used to produce new models. In the last 50 years, many polymers have been used to increase the durability and uniformity while decreasing production costs. Yo-yos have been shaped into various styles and forms for better performance, novelty, gifts or advertisement. In the last 20 years, materials such as graphite, aluminum and magnesium have been used to develop high performance yo-yos. This high performance, however, comes with a high price tag, upwards of several hundred dollars per yo-yo. The presentation will include a collection of yo-yos made from different types of materials, different styles and of course a yo-yo demonstration.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 - 7:00 PM
The Alchemy of Mead

Presented by:
Diana Phillips
Ph.D, Associate Professor and Program Director of Chemistry
Kettering University, Flint, MI

Mead - often called honey wine - is the world's oldest fermented beverage. It's place in history is well documented in song, myth and legend, but what gives each mead an individual quality has gone largely unstudied. Phillips and her fellow mead makers in the International Mead Association (IMA) have set out to change all that. Phillips is part of the Research Committee of the IMA, working on understanding how the variables integral to making mead affect the outcome of the mead produced. Dr. Philips’ mead tastes good too - her habanero pepper mead was judged best of show from among more than 4,700 wines at a competition conducted by WineMaker magazine in Manchester Center, Vt. Join us to learn about the chemistry of mead and sample all that it has to offer.

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 7:00 PM
The Chemistry of Coffee

Presented by:
James Cadariu
Roastmaster Espresso Source, International and the Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company

Learn about the science of roasting and brewing coffee. James Cadariu has trained in Italy at Lavazza, Europe's largest coffee roaster, doing espresso cuppings and analyses of coffee sourcing, blending and roasting. With Cimbali, the Italian espresso machine manufacturer, he has trained extensively on the latest superautomatic technology. Having traveled extensively in Europe and the US and being an amateur cook, he has an extensive background in the art and science of making coffee. The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. is a Detroit-area artisan roaster focusing on Fair Trade Organic coffees. Samples will be available!!

Dutch treat dinner at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Seasonal Changes in Mammals

Presented by:
Lois Rheaume, Naturalist
Seven Ponds Nature Center (Dryden, MI)

Brewing Chemistry explores natural science this month. Lois Rheaume has a strong background in studying Michigan native plants and animals. She will explain how animals can survive in their environment and the adaptations of mammals from summer to winter months. The science of color change and other animal modifications will be described while focusing on the tenets of naturalism. This is a unique opportunity to view rare taxidermy specimens up close.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Chocolate Tasting
Explore the Science of Chocolate Making

Presented by:
Nick Corden

Corden Chocolates was established in 1918 by Samuel P. Corden after he migrated from Greece to Michigan. His first shop was in Detroit on Woodward Ave. next to the Loop Theater. He also opened another candy store in downtown Detroit next to the Senate Theater called the Senate Sweet Shop. In the 1950s, he opened Corden Chocolates in Inkster, currently the only open location.

Nick Corden, the grandson of founder Samuel P. Corden, will be speaking about his family business. Corden Chocolates offers a unique mix of tradition and quality that is rare these days. Nick will be speaking about the candy making process while we sample chocolates he has made.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 - 7:00 PM
Passive Ammonia SCR for Lean Burn SIDI Engines

Presented by:
Kevin Perry,
GM R&D Center

In this talk we present a new concept for lean NOx aftertreatment system for stratified spark-ignition direct-injection (SIDI) engines. This new concept offers significant cost advantage over the conventional lean NOx trap (LNT) or urea selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. Transient dynamometer test results will be presented and the potential and limitations of this new concept will be discussed.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009 - 6:00 PM
The Science of Bowling – Holiday Field Trip
Designing A Better Bowling Ball:
Fun with Structure-Property Relationships

Presented by:
Heinz Plaumann,
BASF Corporation

The coverstock of high performance, professional level bowling balls is often made of with a custom-designed polyurethane material. In this presentation, Heinz will discuss some of the elements going into bowling ball design and performance, where “hook is everything”. The tendency for different materials to absorb the oil used to lubricate the lane is described as well as other surface effects such as polishing and surface wear.

There are no guarantees, of course, that attending this presentation will improve your personal bowling score…but it should be fun!

The talk will take place at Thunderbowl Lanes, the second largest bowling alley in the country. Heinz Plaumann will give his entertaining lecture in a conference room while we dine on pizza and beer (or other beverage of your choice). After his talk, we will hit the lanes!! The cost of this event is $10 and will cover the cost of food, drinks, bowling and shoe rental.

Please RSVP for this event by December 8th!!!

Event Location Change:
The evening of libations, edible delights and science inquiry begins at 6:00 p.m. at Thunderbowl Lanes, 4200 Allen Rd., Allen Park, MI, 48101. For directions, visit http://thunderbowl.org

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Ribosome Chemistry

Presented by:
Annie Labut,
University of Michigan

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2009 was awarded to Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, Thomas A. Steitz and Ada E. Yonath for their studies of the structure and function of the ribosome. Ribosomes are molecular machines that make proteins out of amino acids. One of the central tenets of biology is that DNA makes RNA, which then makes protein. The DNA sequence in genes is copied into a messenger RNA (mRNA). Ribosomes then read the information in this RNA and use it to produce proteins. Annie Labut will explain the steps and regulation of ribosome assembly. The significance of the ribosome in biochemistry will be explored.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Forensic Photography

Presented by:
Joe Sopkowicz

Explore the evolution of photography related to forensic science in this captivating lecture. The chemistry of shooting and processing photographs will be explained throughout the transition from film to Polaroid to digital. Forensic photographer Joe Sopkowicz will explain the science of photography along with the reasons for its use in forensic applications.

Joe Sopkowicz will provide insight to the investigation process through his collection of crime scene and death photographs. The process and examination of crime scene photography can be related to toxicology, DNA, fingerprinting and other types of evidence.

WARNING: MAY CONTAIN GRAPHIC AND DISTURBING IMAGES

Tuesday, September 15, 2009 - 7:00 PM
The Science of Halloween

Presented by:
The Motor City Haunt Club

Second only to Christmas, Halloween is the biggest shopping holiday for retailers, generating more than $6 billion in sales. From professional props in haunted attractions to amateur home decorating, the science of Halloween will be revealed in this entertaining presentation. Members of the Motor City Haunt Club will explain the technical side of the holiday including animatronic, pneumatic, electrical, lighting, and sound systems… and of course, chemistry!!

Unmask the materials that disgust you. Experience a bone-chilling presentation that combines the wonder of science with the thrills and chills of Halloween!

August 18, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Formulation Process & Colloid Chemistry

Presented by:
Dave McCall,
Vaughan Industries

Formulation chemistry is one of the disparities in the chemistry industry. There are many jobs, but extremely few degree programs that adequately train students for a formulation position. As a result, most formulation chemists are either self taught or have in essence been apprenticed under experienced researchers.

Simply put, formulation is the mixing of compounds which do not react in order to get a mixture with the desired characteristics. Examples of formulations are adhesives, paints, inks, cosmetics, detergents and many pharmaceutical products. Formulation involves the study of mixing, phase equilibria, solutions, surface chemistry, colloids, emulsions and suspensions.

Dave McCall will describe the process of converting a collection of materials into formulas.

July 21, 2009 - 7:00 PM
What’s That Made of?
X-ray Fluorescence of Coins as Artifacts

Presented by:
Dr. Mark Benvenuto
University of Detroit Mercy

Coins are historically collected based on their beauty and value. Dr. Mark Benvenuto takes a chemist’s approach to collecting coins and analyzes their composition. The various alloys that make up coins can tell us a lot about how they were made and give insight to the culture they are from.

Mark Benvenuto performs elemental analysis of coins by using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. XRF is a non-destructive technique widely used for environmental, industrial, pharmaceutical, forensic, and scientific research applications to measure the concentration of elemental constituents or contaminants. Dr. Benvenuto will focus on his research of three main groups of coins including the biblical Judean widow’s mites, Siamese bullet coins and medieval Korean coins.

June 15, 2009 - 6:30 PM
The Chemistry of Beer
Lecture and tour will reveal the science of brewing beer and making cheese

Presented by:
Chris Reilly, Master Brewer and Cheesemaker

The Traffic Jam and Snug, established 1965, is truly one of Detroit's hidden treasures. Known throughout Midtown for their in-house bakery, microbrewery, and dairy, their curiously intimate multi-level dining rooms, and an eclectic menu of made-from-scratch dishes, there is simply nothing quite like The Traffic Jam.

They only use the best, freshest ingredients. Each day, their bakery turns out a new Bread of the Day, from authentic ethnic crusted rolls and vegetable breads to whole grain sourdoughs and cheese loaves. In fact, head baker Pete Waldamier stopped keeping records of recipes years ago. A shamefully delicious selection of pies, cakes, and cookies are made there too, not to mention their very own hot fudge and ice cream.

Their award-winning cheeses and beers are a local favorite. They actually use the same equipment for brewing beer and making cheese. On December 18, 1992, after a decade-long legal battle, Michigan became the last Midwest state to enact a brewpub law. Since then, the Traffic Jam has been brewing an uncommon, ever-changing selection of hand-crafted beers. Take, for example, the Grand Theft Pilsner, or the Java Porter. Available in 14 or 22 oz. pours, or try them all with our 8 oz. sampler glasses.

Join us to explore and sample the chemistry of beer brewing and cheesemaking! The tour will begin at 6:30 PM, but feel free to stay for dinner after.

April 21, 2009
What Happened to the FDA?

Presented by:
Felix Schneider,
Supervisory Chemist, Research Coordinator and Laboratory Director with FDA (retired).

During the last five years, this country has experienced a number of recalls of food and drug products both domestic and imported. Leading up to these recalls there have been a large number of illnesses and deaths associated with the products. What has happened in the FDA during the past 8 years that has key Congressional leaders calling for an over-haul of the agency? Mr. Schneider will discuss a number of these incidents and why the FDA failed to protect the public health and some current initiatives that should lead to improvement.

Mr. Schneider is retired after a 42-year career with FDA. He held positions as Analytical Chemist, Supervisory Chemist, Research Coordinator and Laboratory Director with FDA. He served in the Cincinnati, Chicago and Detroit FDA Laboratories. He received a BS Degree in Chemistry and Mathematics from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY. Felix has given numerous lectures on food and drug safety. The question we want him to answer is:

What Happened to the FDA?

March 16, 2009
The Art of Chemistry
Lecture reveals the science of identifying and preserving art works of DIA and other Michigan museums

Presented by:
Kenneth Katz,
Conservation and Museum Services.

Behind every great art collection are highly trained artists and scientists who analyze works pending acquisition and preserve them for generations to come. One of the most sophisticated laboratories in the Detroit area is Conservation and Museum Services. Conservator Kenneth Katz will explain the treatments, approaches and scientific analysis of paintings, paper, textiles, frames and art objects.

Kenneth B. Katz received his Masters Degree in the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works from the State University of Oneonta, Cooperstown Graduate School in 1979. Before becoming a conservator of paintings at the Detroit Institute of Arts in 1986, he worked at the Intermuseum Laboratory in Oberlin Ohio, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Kimbell Museum and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. In 1983, he was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship to study at the Istituto del Restauro in Rome, Italy and in 1987 was elected a Fellow of the International Institute for Conservation, presently the only Painting Fellow in Michigan. Ken left the D.I.A. in 1990 to establish Conservation and Museum Services, which provides preservation services for museums, historical societies, corporations and private individuals.

Occupying 4000 sq. feet in downtown Detroit, Ken and his staff treat paintings, frames, and decorative objects. Ken is President of the Board of Directors for the Etruscan Foundation, is Vice President at the Detroit Athletic Club and is on the Restoration Committee for the Spirit of Detroit Sculpture, as well as an advisor to the Michigan State capital archivist and Michigan Supreme Court Historical Society. His publications in “American Art Review”, “Mahltecknik Restauro” and the “Journal of the American Institute for Conservation”, include articles on conservation adhesives, German Expressionists and the conservation of large architectural surfaces.

February 17, 2009
I ♥ Chemistry - Chemistry of the Heart
For lovers, it’s magic. For chemists, it’s the pursuit of a healthy heart.

Presented by:
Ruthann Nichols, Ph.D.,
Department of Biological Chemistry University of Michigan Medical School

Mechanisms and physiological functions of RFamide neuropeptides in Drosophila to humans; translating basic science to medicine.

Cardiac failure can result from a disorder that impairs the ability of the heart to fill or pump a sufficient amount of blood through the body in a timely manner. Research by the University of Michigan team headed by Ruthann Nichols, Ph.D., professor of biological chemistry, focuses on RFamide peptides, which may be involved in regulating cardiovascular functioning. She has studied a peptide that is synthesized in the brain and transferred to the heart, where it can slow cardiac relaxation. The peptide was originally isolated from fruit flies, but the University of Michigan team recently discovered a structurally similar peptide in humans.

January 20, 2009
Chemistry of Wine and Regional Wine Tasting

Presented by:
Laila Kott, Ph.D.,
Senior Analytical Chemist Ash Stevens, Inc.
and
Steven Brook
Vintner and Sommelier

From Ontario’s Lake Erie shore, our presenters will explain the chemistry of wine and the nuances of taste. In her entertaining presentation, Dr. Kott will cover the chemistry behind grape maturity, the process, aspects to monitor (and how), wine stability (and how to make wine into vinegar), and lastly, what affects the taste of wine. Following the presentation, Mr. Brook will offer a qualitative analysis of local wines. The evening will be filled with select wines and food pairings of the Great Lakes Region. If you have a passion towards wine or are just curious, this is a must attend event! Everyone is welcome, over 21 to drink.

Dr. Laila Kott’s background is as complex as some of the wines she analyses in her spare time in her personal lab. With her PhD from the University of Massachusetts, she has worked in the US, Canada, and Latvia, speaking 4 languages. She has used her expertise in Analytical Chemistry both professionally in the pharmaceutical industry and privately in her wine studies. Her energy and enthusiasm are evident in her enjoyment in science and her willingness to share it.

Steven Brook, a veteran of vinology, spent 5 years as President and owner of his own winery ‘Grape Tree Estate Wines’ and holds a myriad of certificates in wine making, tasting and judging. With his warmth, sense of humor and mesmerizing voice he is a popular public speaker and industry consultant. Steven hosted CKLW’s “The Wine Rack” on the Friday drive home from work and held the second highest rated spot in the Windsor / Detroit market for over seven years. The 2005 & 2006 seasons have seen him running Essex Golf & Country Club’s Food & Beverage Department, in LaSalle, Ontario and consulting across the globe for several food & beverage companies.

December 16, 2008
Green Chemistry

Presented by:
James E. "Ned" Jackson,
Ph.D., Department of Chemistry Michigan State University

Building Blocks for the Biomass Refinery of the Future:
Aqueous-phase Hydrogenation/Hydrogenolysis of Acids, Amides, and Polyols

Chemical manufacturing is among the largest components of the global economy, providing fuels, polymers, coatings, lubricants, personal care goods, medicines, and many other products used across the world. The majority of this production is based on fossil starting materials, mainly petroleum. Indeed, the very fields of organic chemistry and chemical engineering have grown up in a unique age of history—the century of the hydrocarbon. As a result, the way the majority of people live has hugely changed, mostly for the good. But as fossil resources become rarer and more expensive, and the costs of loading the atmosphere with CO2 become more evident, a whole new suite of chemical pathways will be needed to enable the world to shift its chemical and energy industries to a renewable, carbon-neutral basis. Work is underway in our labs at Michigan State University to develop reactions needed for the “biomass refinery” of the future, including the partnership between chemical- and bio-catalytic approaches. Our focus – catalytic reductions (hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis, electrolysis) processes by which carbohydrates, organic acids, and related feedstocks can be converted to useful chemicals and monomer building blocks – will be highlighted.

November 18, 2008
The Archaeological Dating Game:
Radiocarbon, Rock Art and Residues

Presented by:
Ruth Ann Armitage, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Analytical Chemistry
Eastern Michigan University

How old is this artifact? What is that stuff stuck on that stone tool? Who painted that rock art? These are all questions that archaeologists have asked that require a collaborative effort with analytical chemists and nuclear physicists to answer! These studies are of interest to art, history and archaeology fans. This talk will describe some of the projects that are ongoing in the Armitage lab, focusing on the characterization of the organic matter in rock paintings and how to date a rock artist (with radiocarbon).