National Science Foundation awards $660,421 to University of Akron for semicrystalline polymer research

Akron, OH – The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded the University of Akron a grant of $660,421 to fund a groundbreaking research program focused on semicrystalline polymers. This initiative, titled “Crystallization and Reorganization Pathway of Semicrystalline Polymers,” aims to explore the molecular-level changes and crystallization processes of these widely used materials.

Professor Toshi Miyoshi, from the University of Akron’s School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, will oversee the four-year project. Semicrystalline polymers, commonly found in grocery bags and high-performance fibers, gain their strength from the molecular structures formed during processing. The research will delve into how these polymers crystallize and reorganize, paving the way for the development of stronger, more efficient materials.

“This NSF award highlights the importance of understanding semicrystalline polymers at the molecular level,” said Professor Miyoshi. “I am excited to continue this work and contribute to advancements that could shape the future of polymer science”.

The NSF, an independent federal agency, supports science and engineering research across the United States. This grant underscores the agency’s commitment to fostering innovation and scientific advancement.

The research program is set to begin on July 1, 2025, and will run through June 30, 2029.