Golden Spatula 2020

Bo Soolsma conducted research into heat development in the Fischer-Tropsch process, an important petrochemical process with a social impact for obtaining raw materials for plastics and medicines from biomass. However, the industry faces the challenge of finding a solution for controlling the large amount of heat generated. This is a very complex issue due to the extreme pressure under which this process takes place. Bo has demonstrated how heat dissipation is influenced by pressure and the precision with which various parameters must be controlled in order to manage heat generation. She has carried out this petrochemical assignment in a very comprehensive manner, using predictions linked to testing hypotheses with thorough experiments.

The report not only demonstrates a strongly academically developed research attitude combined with a highly practical approach, but she also has a very clear style in describing her study design, with a strong focus on critical reflection in the broader context of professional literature.

The jury was very impressed by the comprehensiveness of the research, which Sasol claims could not have been more demanding. Bo received a grade of 10 for her thesis due to its exceptional quality in the field of petrochemistry. Her supervisors praised her independence, expertise, and excellent communication skills. As an ambassador for science and technology, Bo also demonstrates her enormous passion for her field. These facts make Bo Soolsma an excellent winner of “the Golden Spatula 2020.”

The other two prizes were awarded to:

• Inge van den Boogaert - Fontys Hogeschool
   Redesign of the acid-base flow battery

• Felicia Joy van der Flier - Hogeschool Utrecht
   The influence of Microglia Depletion on the Basic Behavior and Cognitive Performance of Mice with or       without Underlying Brain Inflammation