AkzoNobel Honors 2 Material Scientists
Two prominent researchers in the fields of materials and surface engineering have received AkzoNobel’s 2013 Science Award.
Swedish scientists Lars Hultman, of Linköping University, and Per Claesson, from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), were honored Oct. 1 in Stockholm. Each received a certificate of recognition and an equal share of the SEK 500,000 ($77,927.71 USD) prize.
Thin Films and Corrosion
Hultman, head of Thin Film Physics at Linköping University, was recognized for his work in materials science and nanotechnology—in particular, for his contribution to the study of the physics of thin films and ion-surface interactions.
Claesson, head of the Division of Surface and Corrosion Science at the Royal Institute of Technology, was honored for his contribution to the understanding of interfacial forces, adsorption and the self-assembly of molecular species.
Established to recognize outstanding scientific contributions in the fields of chemistry and materials science, the AkzoNobel Science Award is bestowed in several countries. The winners are chosen by an independent panel of judges convened by partners in those countries. In Sweden, the company partners with the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences.
The award presentation also included a panel discussion about the chemical industry’s role in creating a sustainable society.
Shaping Future Products
“We are privileged to recognize the outstanding work of this year’s winners,” said AkzoNobel Executive Committee member Werner Fuhrmann.
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The research will help AkzoNobel improve the durability, corrosion resistance and fire protection of its coatings and chemicals, said Werner Fuhrmann. |
Fuhrmann said the company supported “leading-edge scientists” in chemistry and materials science.
“We will, in turn, be able to use this newfound knowledge to further improve our products and advance manufacturing technologies in the fields of coatings and specialty chemicals,” he said.
“This will also help our customers to deliver better products through features such as durability, corrosion resistance, and fire protection.”
