Marty Baylor (Physics) and Gretchen Hofmeister (Chemistry) have a joint research project, measuring the gel point of light-sensitive organic polymers that are used for applications to optofluidic devices. Knowing the gel point of different polymer formulations is critically important for creating both the microfluidic channel and the support matrix for the optical waveguide used in these devices. Our recent collaborative investigations indicate that the gel point can be measured in a precise and less time consuming manner using NMR spectroscopy. Specifically, we have found that T1 values (the time constants for nuclear relaxation) of nuclei in an additive to the sample correlate with the degree of gelation. We now plan to expand these results to include samples with different pre-polymer formulations. We also will develop a mathematical model of this correlation, in order to better understand its physical basis. The target student for this project is a chemistry major (or intended major) with a background in organic chemistry and an interest in chemical engineering. This is a 10-week full-time summer research experience; ideally the student will also pursue an independent study during the spring term. Interested students should contact ghofmeis@carleton.edu and mbaylor@carleton.edu to learn more about this project.