By: Joan Seaman
Contributing Writer
St. Bonaventure University’s chemistry department welcomed back alum Dr. John Kreuz ’55 on Oct. 2nd to present some of his research to students.
Kreuz brought two research projects to campus with him: Aqueous Alkaline Treatment of Disulfides to Yield Thioethers and Imide/Polyimide Chemistry Studies. Kreuz gave a presentation to students explaining his hypothesis.
Kreuz said he is excited to bring his research to Bonaventure chemistry students. During his career as a chemist, he made attempts to produce thioethers through the decomposition of cystine, an amino acid. Specifically, he examined the cystine derivatives to lanthionine derivatives. He theorized that an increased knowledge of lanthionines will greatly benefit the scientific community.
Kreuz said he pushed the project to the side after numerous unsuccessful attempts, but still believes there is a scientific contribution to be made.
The second project discussed is the Imide/Polyimide Chemistry Studies. Kreuz experimented with polyimides, a type of polymer that is in high demand for its strength, chemical resistance and heat resistance. He suggested this project due to its practicality. Polyimides are what make seat belts, missiles, aircraft- and wire-coating work properly. According to Kreuz, a better understanding of the composition of polyimides will lead to electrical and industrial advances.
Kreuz said he wants students to break his projects into small pieces and research the concepts further.
“With today’s tools, more progress can be made,” he said.
The beginnings of research that he began decades ago can be developed more extensively, possibly leading to scientific breakthroughs, according to Kreuz.
Kreuz said scientists should be self-generating. Kreuz advised students to “run your own show,” instead of waiting for inspiration to strike. He said he wants his projects to be the spark that makes students think deeper.
Donna Bretensky, assistant professor of chemistry, believes Kreuz’s visit speaks to the strong relationship Bonaventure has with its alumni.
“It says a lot that he is retired and chooses to spend his time at Bonaventure educating future chemists.” Bretensky said.
Kreuz said he plans to be a “faculty aid” to chemistry students at Bonaventure and visit several times a year to offer his assistance.
