Carolyn Koh Research Group

Colorado School of Mines

Water can form crystalline cages that trap gas molecules, creating both engineering hazards and possible energy-storage materials. Carolyn Koh investigates how these clathrate hydrates nucleate, grow, cluster, and break down. Her research combines spectroscopy, neutron diffraction, computer simulation, and macroscopic thermal measurements to connect molecular structures with observable behavior. Understanding inhibitors and promoters helps address hydrate blockages in oil and gas flowlines. Other applications include energy transportation and storage, linking fundamental crystallization science with the challenge of controlling complex materials under demanding operating conditions.