A discussion focusing on the science behind the pros and cons of drilling for natural gas in Marcellus Shale will be held on Wednesday, April 25, at 7 p.m. in the Compton Science Center, Room 327, at Frostburg State University. Dr. Robert Larivee, a professor in FSU’s Chemistry Department, and Dr. Phillip Allen, an assistant professor in the Geography Department, will speak. A panel discussion and question-and-answer session will follow. The event is free and open to the public.
A graduate of the University of Delaware in analytical chemistry, Larivee focuses primarily on environmental issues. Working with Maryland Department of Natural Resources, he established a laboratory at FSU to analyze coal and shale deposits in Western Maryland. Recently, his studies have centered on determining the possibilities of sequestering carbon dioxide on a long-term basis in abandoned Marcellus drill holes. He is also investigating procedures to extract methane from Marcellus Shale using supercritical fluids.
Allen received his doctorate in Quaternary science from Coventry University. He is interested in many aspects of Earth science, particularly the Quaternary period. His main interest is geomorphic evolution of landscapes, especially in cold climate regions. Recently, he started a project to analyze the effects of salt pollution at FSU and in the surrounding area.
This event is sponsored by the Western Maryland section of the American Chemical Society.
For more information, contact Dr. Benjamin Norris at 301-687-4157 or bnnorris@frostburg.edu.
FSU is committed to making all of its programs, services and activities accessible to persons with disabilities. To request accommodations through the ADA Compliance Office, call 301-687-4102 or use a Voice Relay Operator at 1-800-735-2258.
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