The catalytic properties of zeolites depend on their silicon to aluminum ratio, and very importantly, on the distribution of Al sites within the zeolite framework. As her Senior Honors Thesis project Shu Ning Hiew developed a Monte Carlo algorithm using a Metropolis decision criterion and predicted temperature-dependent Al distributions for zeolites with the CHA, MFI and MWW framework, including probability estimates of finding adjacent acid sites. Her very hard work on this challenging project paid off and her thesis was selected as Outstanding Senior Honors Thesis by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Major Awards.
Congratulations Shu Ning and good luck!!