Clemson University gets $5.6mn for research in material science
12 Nov '05
4 min read
“Seeds are planted now for multiple generations to come. The growth will impact jobs and economic development in South Carolina. We don't want to grow and develop talent here so that the best and brightest can then leave. We want them to stay in the state and prosper,” he said.
While much of the traditional textile industry has gone overseas to cheaper labor markets, Clemson University School of Materials Science and Engineering has expanded to encompass different high-tech niche areas of the market. Expertise now extends to fiber-reinforced composite materials based on metals, ceramics and polymers for high performance and light weight, with uses in automotive, space, athletic equipment and medical prosthetic markets.
In addition, biomedical fibers are being tested for artificial arteries, scaffolds for cell or bone growth and self-healing fabrics that promote skin reconstruction. Non-traditional “textile” fibers, such as inorganic glasses, are also being produced for use in telecommunications or high power fiber laser systems, lasers for automotive welding, defense sensing and warfare applications. Blending the know-how and expertise in these diverse areas will lead to innovative advances.
Materials Science and Engineering School Director Kathleen Richardson said the Sirrine Foundation gift serves as a keystone to an interdisciplinary materials program that will influence needed changes in the industry and shape the school's future.
“We are combining the old with the new in textiles and fibers,” she said. “Because of our long history in textiles and with the J.E. Sirrine Textile Foundation, we know what it takes to make textiles work, both from the educational side and in research. With this gift for the endowed chairs, we'll be able to extend our capabilities, bringing new, world-class expertise in these areas to Clemson.
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