University of Minnesota Chem-E-Car Team 2009 National Competition in Nashville, TN, Run 1

This is University of Minnesota's first run in the 2009 AICHE Chem-E-Car team national competition in Nashville, TN. The car is powered by generating CO2 by mixing sodium bicarbonate and acetic acid in a pressure vessel. A ball valve is released , and the pressurized CO2 is used to extend a single stroke piston. A series of strings and pulleys attached to the piston drives the car forward. Friction slows the car to a stop.

On this run, the car stopped approximately 9 feet short of the line (77ft was the goal). This was likely caused by insufficient mixing of reagents. This problem was solved in run 2.

A special thanks goes out to General Mills, and Donaldson for their generous sponsorship.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Chem-E-Car
• AICHE
• U of M
• UMN
• Tennessee