Dr. Albert Sacco, Jr

George A. Snell Distinguished Professor of Engineering; Director of the Center for Advanced Microgravity Materials Processing

Ph.D.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1977

B.S. (Chemical Engineering)
Northeastern University, 1973

Contact:
Phone: 617.373.7912
Email: asacco@coe.neu.edu
Website: http://www.dac.neu.edu/cammp/

Research Focus/Background

Prof. Sacco’s research focuses on synthesis and use of advanced materials, and on integrating biological and physical systems. Presently, he is investigating the production of quantum wires using titanosilicates. These are to develop atomic wires that use light instead of electrons for information storage, and for nano and microcircuits. In addition, he is investigating using bacteria and yeast for trace gas detection (parts per billion) by integrating these living systems with high performance semiconductors. The hypothesis being that these biological/physical systems will self-repair and self-calibrate, while performing a task. They can be used to monitor and help control ethylene (use to mature plants and flowers) to increase plant stability. They also can be used to monitor pollutants in environmental sensitive areas.

In addition, Prof Sacco is developing a new method of photocatalysis to help destroy harmful bacteria and funguses in the production of foods. This technique uses multifunctional materials (materials that activate on contact with an electrical circuit) to produce radicals to destroy harmful contaminates. Use will be in close food production and close loop live support systems on submarines and spacecraft. Prof Sacco is also actively involved with the production of compound membranes for use in fuel cells for automobiles.

Research Areas:

  • Quantum Wires
  • Fuel Cell Applications
  • Carbon Nanotube Applications
  • Advanced Materials for Space Applications
  • Biosensors


  • Contact

    Department of Chemical Engineering
    313 Snell Engineering Center
    Northeastern University
    360 Huntington Avenue
    Boston, MA 02115-5000

    Tel: (617) 373-2989
    Fax: (617) 373-2209