Arkema and the French Academie des Science announce “Prize for Innovation in Chemistry for Sustainable Materials”

Colombes, France – The ARKEMA – ACADÉMIE DES SCIENCES Prize for Innovation in Chemistry for Sustainable Materials, in the sum of €25,000, is intended to reward a scientist of international standing in the field of materials. It specifically rewards scientific work that contributes to the development of innovative materials at the service of environmental protection and sustainability. This could for example include biosourced, recyclable, high-performance, and lightweight materials for renewable energy, sustainable construction, or mobility.

Arkema has a long history of breakthroughs in innovative and environmentally-friendly materials, from Rilsan® Polyamide 11 to the very latest Pebax® Rnew elastomers for sports shoes, the Elium® resin for recyclable wind turbine blades, the Kizen™ bonding technology for more sustainable packaging, the Sartomer® photocure resins for coatings and 3D printing, and a number of solutions for developing high-performance electric batteries. The Group is keen to encourage research in these areas, which are key for society at large, by joining forces with the prestigious Académie des sciences. With its multidisciplinary approach and very high academic standards, the Academy is committed to scientific development, promotes science education, and fosters the transfer of knowledge as well as international cooperation.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and of both public and private partners, the Académie des sciences awards numerous prizes, scholarships and medals every year. These awards honor accomplished scientists or support young researchers early on in their careers. Through these awards, the Académie des sciences directly contributes to its mission of championing the world of science.
“This prize will reward highly talented scientists working to improve the environment. It is perfectly in line with Arkema’s new brand signature: ‘Innovative Materials for a Sustainable World’. It reflects our belief that scientific research and technological innovation will be major contributors to the positive development of society,” explains Armand Ajdari, Arkema Group R&D CTO (Chief Technology Officer).
“The Académie des sciences is particularly committed to encouraging major scientific advances, including those that matter to society. By creating this Prize for Innovation in Chemistry for Sustainable Materials, in partnership with Arkema, the Académie des sciences demonstrates its concern for environmental protection and sustainability,” states Patrick Flandrin, President of the Académie des sciences.

The Arkema – Académie des sciences Prize will be awarded annually for scientific breakthroughs in the development, understanding or application of sustainable materials, i.e. materials whose life cycle and use lead to major environmental benefits.
The Académie des sciences will launch a call for proposals at the beginning of the year, specifying the terms for submitting and presenting applications. The “Arkema – Académie des sciences Prize for Innovation in Chemistry for Sustainable Materials” will be awarded every year in the fall at a ceremony in the Academy’s prestigious premises in Paris, and carries a cash prize of €25,000.
Created by Colbert in 1666, the Académie des sciences is an assembly of scientists, chosen among the most distinguished French and foreign specialists. It examines the political, ethical and societal issues surrounding the current and future scientific topics. The Academy reflects, anticipates, explains and pronounces itself, mainly through opinions and recommendations and takes position when necessary. It aims to provide policy makers with a framework of expertise, counsel and alert and more broadly to enlighten the debates and choices of our society. In addition, the Académie des sciences supports research, is committed to the quality of science education and promotes scientific life at the international level. Today, the Académie des sciences has 277 members, 122 foreign associated members and 63 corresponding members.