Chem-E-Car

Chem-E-Car is an innovative competition that challenges college and university students to design and construct small-scale chemical-powered vehicles. The primary goal of these vehicles is to operate safely and travel a specified distance with a specified payload. The competition is unique because it integrates principles of chemistry, chemical engineering, and environmental engineering to solve a practical engineering problem. It is organized by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and has gained international participation.

Overview

The Chem-E-Car competition requires teams to design a car that is powered by a chemical energy source, which can precisely stop at a designated distance. The exact distance and the payload, which the car must carry, are announced on the competition day, usually an hour before the competition starts. This introduces a significant challenge for the participants, as their designs must be adaptable and controllable based on the last-minute specifications. The cars are typically small, with size restrictions also defined by the competition rules.

Design Criteria

The design of a Chem-E-Car involves several critical criteria:

• Power Source: The car must be powered by a chemical reaction. Common power sources include hydrogen fuel cells, battery cells created through chemical reactions, and thermoelectric devices powered by temperature differences.
• Stopping Mechanism: The car must stop based on a chemical reaction. Timing mechanisms often involve iodine clock reactions, changes in pH, or temperature changes to trigger a stopping mechanism.
• Safety: Safety is paramount. Teams must adhere to strict safety guidelines to protect participants and observers. The use of certain hazardous chemicals is prohibited.
• Innovation: Teams are encouraged to be innovative in their design, both in terms of the chemical reactions used and the engineering design of the car itself.

Competition Rules

The competition rules are designed to ensure safety, fairness, and the educational value of the event. Key rules include:

• Size and weight restrictions for the vehicles.
• Prohibition of certain dangerous chemicals.
• Requirements for the car to carry a specified payload.
• The need for the car to stop at a specific distance, which varies each year.

Educational Benefits

Participating in the Chem-E-Car competition provides students with a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a practical, hands-on project. It fosters teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, it allows students to explore the interdisciplinary nature of engineering, requiring knowledge of chemistry, physics, and environmental science.

Global Impact

The Chem-E-Car competition has grown to have a global impact, with teams from around the world participating in local, regional, and international competitions. It not only promotes the field of chemical engineering but also encourages the development of sustainable and safe energy technologies.

See Also

• Chemical Engineering
• American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Sustainable Energy
• Environmental Engineering