The Speaker:

Dr. Zenaida Otero Gephardt is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at Rowan University. Her research focuses on optimization, development and mathematical modeling of chemical processes and laboratory techniques. She has developed statistical models and experimental designs for a wide range of processes including high pressure and supercritical processes. She has also developed mathematical models and experimental designs for multi-phase systems ranging from bench scale laboratory techniques to large-scale industrial applications. Dr. Gephardt has also developed statistical process control and analysis techniques for manufacturing processes.
She develops and presents seminars and short-courses for technical professional organizations and industry. Dr. Gephardt consults with a wide range of industries including Hoffman La Roche in New Jersey and Specialty Minerals in Pennsylvania. She holds a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Delaware and is a registered professional engineer in Delaware.

Abstract:

Experimental Design: An Indispensable Tool for Scientists and Engineers

As experimentation has become more costly and regulated, the development of efficient experimental programs has become an important priority throughout processing and manufacturing industries. Good laboratory practices and quality certifications are now commonplace in industry, and statistical experimental design is an important part of these programs. In addition, the need to do more with less, coupled with increasing customer demand for speed and quality, have made statistical experimental design a necessity in a wide range of laboratories and industries. Statistical experimental design allows experimenters to obtain the maximum information from a minimum number of experiments. Experimental design techniques offer numerous advantages, including simplicity. Many of the techniques are simple to use and only require a calculator. In addition, available software packages make even complex design techniques easy to apply. The basic principles of experimental design will be presented with emphasis on industrial applications. Examples will be presented to show how experimental design techniques can be used to develop efficient experimental programs.

Directions:
The September meeting will be held at Five Point Diner, which is located at the intersection of Hwy 41 and State Hwy 47 in Deptford. Please call the restaurant at 856-228-5166 for direction. Tiltond). At the stoplight, turn right onto Tilton Rd, travel about 1 mile, and the Blue Heron Pines' west course is on the right. Telephone: (609)965-1800

Social Hour: 5:30-6:30 PM
Dinner: 6:30 PM
Talk 7:30 PM

Dinner selection:
Broiled chicken
Baked Virginia Ham
Broiled Flounder

Cost: $15 members and guests, $10 students
Reservations by Monday September 10, 2001

Donna D'Emilio (856) 256-4855
Michael Casner (856) 384-7048
Thomas Colacot (856) 384-7185
Alice Sebastian (856) 384-7028

Last Update 8/30/01
Maintained by Robert Newland