CLEVELAND—The ACS Rubber Division's 2019 International Elastomer Conference kicked off Oct. 8 at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland with a keynote presentation, the opening of the conference expo and an array of networking opportunities.
The keynote presentation, given by Ramani Narayan, a distinguished professor of chemical engineering and material sciences at Michigan State University, explored the viability of biodegradable polymers while challenging the traditional understanding biobased materials.
Rubber Division Chair Mike Morrow welcomed attendees to the International Elastomer Conference expo with a traditional ribbon cutting event. The expo, in addition to offering the opportunity to explore some of the new trends and technologies throughout the industry, also encouraged attendees to network and collaborate.
The Rubber Division, this year, sponsored a special area dubbed the Rubber Zone. Here, attendees can challenge colleagues and friends to games such as putt-putt billiards, Connect Four, Scrabble or Jenga.
In addition to the technical presentations that continue throughout the day on Oct. 9 and 10, the IEC will feature several special events.
The 16th annual Student Colloquium will take place Oct. 9 and presentations will be given throughout the day.
From 11-11:30 a.m. Oct. 9 Rubber Division volunteers will detail the ways in which giving time and energy back to the organization have been a rewarding experience.
The 25-Year Luncheon Club will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the Young Professionals Forum following from 1-2 p.m.
A career fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 10 , and the event will conclude with the Business and Awards Meeting, set for 2-3 p.m. that day.
Throughout the week, the Rubber Division also is taking time to thank longtime Executive Director Ed Miller, who will retire after 19 years with the organization. The group also is celebrating with Lakisha Miller-Barclay, who was selected to serve as the next executive director.