Chemical society convenes regional meeting in San Antonio, October 17-20

Over 320 research findings are scheduled for presentation at the 57th Southwest regional meeting of the American Chemical Society, the world’s largest scientific society, in San Antonio, October 17-20. Noted scientists as well as undergraduate and graduate students are expected to attend the meeting at the Omni San Antonio Hotel (210-691-8888).

On display at the meeting will be a plastic sport utility vehicle, the “Baja,” made by Automotive Design & Composites, Ltd., of San Antonio. Thermoplastic skin and thermoset structures make it lightweight, durable, safe and fuel efficient, according to its designers. Ultraviolet inhibitors and waterproof sealing protect surfaces exposed to the elements, and the plastic skin eliminates the need for paint. Expected to hit the market in late 2002 and sell for $15,000 - $17,000, the vehicle will be on display throughout the meeting.

Other meeting highlights include:

Beer, taco shells and Mexican free tail bats — The compound responsible for the characteristic, strong and irritating odor of Mexican free tail bats is the same compound that provides flavor to taco shells and beer. (Lawrence T. Nielsen, Microanalytics, Round Rock, Texas, 512-918-1712)
Water resources and water quality along the Rio Grande — Growth in population and industry along the border between Texas and Mexico is impacting water resources and quality. (Louis Manz, University of Texas at San Antonio, 210-458-4450)
Environmental health issues along the border region — A community health assessment of the Lower Rio Grande Valley reports on water and air quality, hazardous material transportation routes, sewage treatment, indoor air quality and food safety. (Jimmy L. Perkins, University of Texas at San Antonio, 210-458-4450)
Water quality in San Antonio lakes — Braunig, Calaveras and Mitchell lakes all receive water from wastewater sources. The researcher has studied the characteristics of the lakes. (Vincent Romeo, University of Texas at San Antonio, 210-458-4450)