University of Akron faculty members selected as finalists for the NorTech Innovation Awards are: Dr. Steven Chuang, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering; Dr. Joseph Kennedy, distinguished professor of polymer science and chemistry; and Dr. Judit Puskas, professor of polymer science. They are among the 20 innovators from throughout Northeast Ohio who made the short list.
The program recognizes meaningful innovations originating from universities, companies, nonprofit organizations and entrepreneurs throughout the region. Presented by Crain’s Cleveland Business, awards are granted in categories including biosciences, instrumentation controls and electronics, advanced materials, information and communications technologies, and advanced energy, power and propulsion.
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Chuang was selected for his carbon sequestration, or CO2 capture, which could significantly reduce greenhouse emissions. Chuang’s breakthrough technology captures emissions from existing coal-fired energy plants, which account for about 50 percent of utility power generation worldwide.
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Kennedy was selected for his artificial pancreas technology. He has collaborated with Dr. Mukerrem Cakmak, UA professor of polymer engineering, to make a biocompatible, polymer-coated nanofiber tube populated with insulin-producing cells from a pig. This implantable device could become the first long-term cure for diabetes.
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Puskas was selected for her development of a carbon nanocomposite based on thermoplastic rubber and silica and targeted to become a breast implant. Demonstrated to be more biocompatible than medical-grade silicone rubber, Puskas’ nanocomposite has twice the strength of silicone rubber, self-reinforces when stretched and has low permeability.
“Our researchers and their innovations could greatly affect society, the environment and the economy. They represent the vision of our faculty members to transfer their technical and scientific expertise into innovations that could significantly enhance economic development regionally, nationally and globally,” says Dr. George Newkome, UA vice president for research and dean of the graduate school.