60th Annual STS (2000–2001)
Finalists
Ashvin Kumar Dewan

TEXAS
Ashvin Kumar Dewan, 18, of Sugar Land, has conducted corrosion research for the past three years. His chemistry entry in the Intel Science Talent Search represents his most recent studies in neutralizer amines (ammonia derivatives), a proven method for controlling corrosion at metal surfaces in refinery and chemical process units. Ashvin identified a relationship between their solution properties (conductance, viscosity and density) and the metal corrosion rate, and proposes using their measurement to define, select and/or screen neutralizer candidates. He co-authored a paper on his study, presented at the national meeting of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Ashvin is first in his class of 355 at Hightower High School in Missouri City and president of the math/science club. He has won dozens of awards in science and math competitions, including three grand prizes at Houston's Science & Engineering Fairs. An Eagle Scout and community-service volunteer, he is the son of Dr. Ashok and Vanita Dewan. Ashvin hopes to study biomedical engineering at MIT or Rice University, and to become a cardiovascular surgeon.