Michigan State University

Hub International Partner Lead Academic: Professor Lawrence Drzal

The Composite Materials and Structures Center in the College of Engineering at Michigan State University is one of the foremost facilities for the study of polymer composites and is internationally recognized for its contributions to composite science and engineering. The faculty of the College of Engineering along with the full time staff researchers of the CMSC have expertise in processing, design and optimization, materials science, nanocomposite technology, structural analysis, surface science, failure analysis, and more.

The CMSC offers the opportunity to conduct proprietary, confidential programs by assembling a focused team of researchers to address specific issues of importance to the client. The Center is fully equipped with 8 laboratories totalling nearly 20000 square feet having the latest instrumentation for the study of composite manufacturing, performance, and durability. Professor Lawrence Drzal’s research interests include: polymer composite materials; carbon fiber surfaces; carbon fiber surface treatment; graphene; graphite; carbon; cellulose; nanoparticles; nanotechnology; nanocomposites, surfaces; interfaces; polymers, adhesion, surface chemistry; surface characterization; polymer composite processing; ultraviolet light; cellulose nanowhiskers; and microfibers.

Since its inception in 1986 the Composite Materials and Structures Center has conducted research programs sponsored by private sector firms as well as from state and federal agencies, including CYTEC, National Science Foundation, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, US Department of the Army, Boeing, US Department of Agriculture, US Office of Naval Research, Nissan Motor Co., Chrysler Challenge Fund, Toray Industries, Gates corporation, and the Environmental Protection Agency. The CMSC offers programs of testing and anaylsis, ranging from focused investigations on a time and materials basis or lasting a few weeks, to more complex, multi-year efforts on a contractual basis.

For a full equipment list, and to find out more about CMSC’s research, visit their website.

Michigan State University