Donovan, Katrina 

• Ph.D., Oregon State University 

• M.S., San Jose State University 

• B.S., South Dakota School of Mines & Technology

Investigation of Bison bone viability in ceramic coatings (2 AY-SRP). This project is a collaboration with a local community member and artist that works with the company Wild Ideas. Wild Idea Buffalo Com- pany is located in South Dakota offers an alternative to the industrialized food system. The idea was simple: offer delicious, healthy, 100% grass-fed and finished buffalo meat to consumers interested in supporting a healthier planet and a sustainable food supply. The company works hard to utilize all parts of the animal as was traditionally done on the Great Plains. The bones can be a challenging piece to utilize beyond the head for decoration or art.

The Bison bone project will be two pronged approach that can be done in parallel. First the project will require determining effective bone rendering protocols (processing the bone to be a usable product). Bone is com- posed of hydroxyapatite, a mineral that provides strength and stability. Hydroxyapatite is also rich in calcium and phosphorus, two elements that enhance translucency in ceramic coatings. Care consideration has to be given to processing as the bone contains organic material which cause problems during rendering.

The second component of the project is to create and optimize local-sourced ceramic coatings utilizing the rendered bison bone. The second prong can be completed in parallel to the first with similar bone ash. The minerals will be dispersed into a cellulose gum solution to improve application. The rheology of the loaded gum solution will be optimized. We will utilize advanced characterization to explore process-structure- property-performance relationships in coatings, facilitating the development of a materials map to guide the creation of ceramic bison bone coatings.

Determine the viability and efficacy of Copper Integration into Locally Sourced and Formulated Ceramic Coatings to Inhibit Fungal and Microbial Growth (2 AY-SRP). The Black Hills have a rich mineral history and is home to many minerals (gold, copper, lead, nickel, gemstones, sand, mica, lime, and more). A ceramic clay body in a variety of shapes will be 3D Printed and cast. The material properties of both manufacturing approaches (printing and cast) will be characterized (rheology, mechanical testing) in the TECCL at South Dakota Mines. A coating of locally sourced minerals will coat the surface and coating quality will be investigated with mechanical testing (3 point bend) and image analysis (SEM).