In many directorates and divisions at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), polymers and other soft matter are important both in fundamental research and for the development of new materials and processing technologies. In fact, many aspects of soft matter are studied at ORNL, ranging from the design and synthesis of new materials, to characterization and prediction of properties, to processing. These different disciplines, and user facilities involved in and enabling polymer research, like those in the Neutron Sciences Directorate (NScD) and the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), have different approaches to measuring output and scheduling access to facilities.
To obtain the highest level of synergy and scientific output lab-wide, it would be beneficial to establish new collaborations and to intensify existing collaborations. This process can be promoted by making lab members aware of what research and development is taking place and what the different modes of operation are.
To this end, on May 29th a lab wide Polymer Day will be organized, allowing different groups to showcase their research and development activities and to discuss relevant issues in their day-to-day operations. The program will also include scientific talks from the different research entities and break out groups tasked with developing a comprehensive ORNL strategy with respect to polymer and soft matter research and development.
In addition to increasing awareness of the current state of ORNL on-site polymer research, the material presented at this Polymer Day will constitute one of several inputs into the development of a comprehensive multi-year strategy for ORNL polymer research.
