Recognising Engineering Excellence – 2024

Academic Choice First Place: Emily Buckley

Emily’s project to minimise blood stream infection revolves around using new materials for implantable catheters. Emily aims to address the infection risks associated with Central Venous Catheters (CVCs) by redesigning the needle-free connector to minimise contamination during handling and exploring proactive generation of antimicrobial substances to reduce infection rates.

Despite aseptic practices, Catheter Line Associated Bloodstream Infection remains a significant concern, with mortality rates ranging from 9% to 25%. The needleless connector serves as a direct entry point to the venous network, potentially transporting bacteria that may have contaminated the device, leading to biofilm formation and subsequent infection. To tackle this issue, the study focuses on evaluating the production and detection of antimicrobial agents using cyclic voltammetry, with a particular emphasis on reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide generated through electrochemical oxygen reduction. Although folic acid (Vitamin B12) is commonly used in treatments, its potential to produce ROS like H2O2 has not been thoroughly explored. Assessing folic acid’s functionality in generating ROS could be revolutionary for CVC applications due to its biocompatibility and hemocompatibility.

Student:

• Emily Buckley – Biomedical Engineering

Prize awarded: £800

Academic Choice Second Place: Oisin Kelly

Oisin’s project surroungs the characterisation of electrospun polymer scaffold strength in Tissue Engineering. It aims to develop a cancer cell culture in vitro toxicology platform utilizing PLCL scaffolds and employing an MTT colorimetric assay for the evaluation of cell viability. The objectives include developing PLCL scaffolds suitable for in vitro cancer cell culture, optimising the MTT colorimetric assay protocol, establishing a cancer cell culture model on PLCL scaffolds, and evaluating the toxicological effects of anticancer drugs or compounds.

This project’s innovation lies in the development of a cancer in vitro toxicology platform using PLCL scaffolds, which offer a biomimetic environment resembling the extracellular matrix of tumours. By incorporating an MTT colorimetric assay, the project enhances the accuracy and efficiency of cell viability assessment, enabling high-throughput screening of potential anticancer agents. Upon completion, the project will establish a cancer in vitro toxicology platform, facilitating the evaluation of cytotoxic effects of various compounds on cancer cells cultured on PLCL scaffolds. This platform will provide insights into the efficacy and safety of potential anticancer therapies, advancing the development of novel treatment strategies with improved efficacy and reduced toxicity. Additionally, the platform’s biomimetic nature offers a promising tool for studying tumour biology and drug response in a controlled laboratory setting, thereby enhancing our understanding of cancer pathophysiology and therapeutic interventions.

Student:

• Oisin Kelly – Biomedical Engineering

Prize awarded: £600

Academic Choice: Joint Third Place: Rachel McCormick

Rachel aims to develop a wearable sensor for managing Crohn’s Disease. The sensor would be integrated into an ileostomy pouch to monitor peroxide concentration, serving as a basis for early detection of bowel dysbiosis in vulnerable groups. Current challenges in peroxide detection, including interference from other species, are addressed by utilising an electrocatalyst like Prussian Blue (PB) to lower the detection potential, thus minimising interference.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), significantly impacts gut health, affecting approximately 620,000 patients in the UK alone. Peroxide, a by-product of cellular activity, can induce inflammation in the colon and contribute to gut microbiome changes and bowel dysbiosis, particularly in IBD patients. The sensor would provide early detection of bowel dysbiosis and facilitating timely intervention to mitigate inflammation and tissue damage. The utilisation of PB as an electrocatalyst ensures accurate peroxide detection, enabling precise monitoring without interference from other electroactive components.

Student:

• Rachel McCormick – Biomedical Engineering

Prize awarded: £200

Academic Choice: Joint Third Place: Maria McKenna

Maria’s project looked at the characterisation of 3D Printed Polyaryletherketone (PEEK) Material for orthopaedic implant devices. This study aims to explore the mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and performance of 3D printed PEEK material for spinal fusion implants, aiming to enhance patient outcomes in orthopaedic surgery. Conventional metallic implants used in spinal fusion procedures often encounter challenges such as stress shielding and limitations with CT/MRI imaging. The proposed solution involves the utilisation of 3D printed PEEK, integrated with hydroxyapatite (HA) to improve biocompatibility. This innovative approach addresses the limitations of conventional implants by offering enhanced mechanical strength and bioactivity. PEEK/HA composites have the potential to mimic the characteristics of natural bone, providing a promising solution for spinal fusion implants that can improve patient outcomes in orthopaedic surgery.

Student:

• Maria McKenna – Biomedical Engineering

Prize awarded: £200

Academic Choice: Joint Third Place: Elaine Keegan

Elaine looked at machine learning techniques in Atrial Fibrillation, with the aim to create algorithms within MATLAB to detect whether an ECG signal is normal or abnormal. The engineering approach involves developing algorithms for ECG signal filtering, with techniques to identify R-peaks and plot the signals. Additionally, 1-2 algorithms will be developed specifically for detecting AF within signals, utilizing the same datasets for training and validation. After algorithm development, sensitivity and specificity will be calculated for each, resulting in three successful algorithms, from which the best one can be identified. This project’s innovation lies in the development of novel algorithms tailored to detect AF within ECG signals, leveraging advanced signal processing techniques and machine learning methodologies. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute to the advancement of medical diagnostics by providing reliable tools for early detection and intervention in cardiac arrhythmias, thereby improving patient care and outcomes.

Student:

• Elaine Keegan – Biomedical Engineering

Prize awarded: £200

Student and Public Choice First Place: Jihao Qiao

Jiahao’s project, in conjunction with Belfast City Council, was to build a circular economy, focusing on the recycling of white goods. To enable the ‘right to repair’, the project focuses on providing citizens with access to repair information, ensuring availability of parts and tools, offering software support, and implementing incentives to promote repair behaviour. To overcome barriers to repair, research is conducted to identify low-cost engineering methods, such as 3D printing, that enable self-repair. Public engagement strategies, including surveys and interviews, would be employed to gauge public opinion and willingness to repair white goods with appropriate information and training.

While 3D scanning and printing offer initial low-cost bespoke solutions for simple parts, the project recognises the need for comprehensive engineering solutions to address diverse electrical and mechanical issues. Additionally, the project explores innovative recycling methods, such as selective gold adsorption, to recover rare minerals from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and create value from recycling. The project emphasises the importance of developing manuals, videos, and protocols to empower individuals with the necessary skills for self-repair under the ‘right to repair’ guidelines.

Student:

• Jiahao Qiao – Mechanical Engineering

Prize awarded: £500

Student and Public Choice Second Place: Hannah McMullen

Hannah’s project surrounds Innovation Through Play and the designing of a LEGO® STEM activity for 9–11-year-old children.

STEM education is essential, yet primary education often lacks adequate provision in this area. By incorporating play-based learning with LEGO®, children can engage with STEM concepts in a stimulating and enjoyable manner. The project’s primary goal is to both educate and inspire children about STEM through the use of LEGO® challenges. Objectives include the creation of an educational and fun STEM challenge, fostering teamwork and communication skills, emphasizing creativity, and addressing gender disparities within STEM fields. Key findings from the project include the successful development of a fully functioning RC car, construction of an engaging obstacle course, and adherence to project plans. LEGO® has proven to be an effective tool for engaging children in STEM education, promoting creativity, and enhancing problem-solving skills. However, the project also highlights the importance of addressing gender representation in STEM fields to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Student:

• Hannah McMullen – Mechatronics Engineering

Prize awarded: £300

Student and Public Choice Third Place: Cameron Samuel Gamble

Cameron’s project was to develop an understanding of future raw material supply chains, particularly of vehicle usage in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland heavily relies on fossil fuels, especially in vehicle internal combustion engines, posing sustainability challenges amid net zero targets. Transitioning to locally sourced renewable energy is vital for the country’s stability, despite road infrastructure constraints. The project aims to identify technologies for meeting car demand, considering their impact on raw material supply chains. Biofuel is impractical due to land constraints, while e-fuels may prolong petroleum reliance. Electric vehicles show promise, but challenges like underdeveloped charging infrastructure persist. Hydrogen fuels, though promising, require renewable energy production and face efficiency issues. Changes in supply chains include reduced demand for petrol, diesel, and engine components, with opportunities in battery recycling and charging equipment supply.

Student:

• Cameron Samuel Gamble – Mechantronics Engineering

Prize awarded: £200