Lawrence T. DrzalLawrence T. Drzal is a University Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science and Director, Composite Materials and Structures Center at Michigan State University. He received his PhD (Case Western Reserve University) and joined MSU in 1985 after serving as a military and civilian researcher at the AF Materials Laboratory at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio where he was responsible for interfacial research in advanced composite materials and adhesively bonded systems. His research is directed at understanding the fundamental physical and chemical interactions that take place between polymers and reinforcements in composite materials. Currently his research is directed at investigating multifunctional, graphene nanoplatelets and other nanoparticles, their nano-structuring for enhanced strength and toughness, electrical and thermal conductivity, reduced permeability and flammability in fiber reinforced composite materials. Dr. Drzal co-founded XG Sciences, Inc., a Michigan-based graphene nanoplatelet company and serves as the Chief Scientist. During his career Professor Drzal has published over 350 peer reviewed research papers, and has been awarded 31 patents. He has been identified by ISI as one of the most cited materials researchers. He currently serves on the editorial board of five journals and on numerous government committees and has been elected a Fellow of five professional societies. |