Dr. Ritchie’s research deals primarily with selective separations through the use of membranes and thin films. By modifying the surface chemistry of membranes and other materials, specific functionality may be imparted on the material. Selectivity may also be added by incorporation of a second material, such as nano- particles. Current areas of interest include environmental separations for chlorinated organics and elemental mercury, and membrane reactors for esterification. In addition, modeling the behavior of these new systems is critical for eventual implementation.