9402989 MOUDGIL The two-fold mission of the Engineering Research Center for Particle Science and Technology is to: (1) develop cost effective processing and handling of particulate systems relevant to a wide range of industries, such as chemicals and allied products, textiles and paper products, coal, metals and minerals, energy and environmental, construction, land and coastal management, agricultural and food processing, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, etc., and (2) to educate students and other professionals in the engineering practice of particle science and technology. A cross-disciplinary integrated research program will focus on: (1) dispersion, consolidation and redispersion, (2) transport and handling, (3) particles in effluents, and (4) analysis and characterization. Research on simulation, modeling and visualization will provide the integrating base for the Center's research activities. A testbed facility will be built for validation, demonstration and development of process and product ideas generated by the Center. The educational program will include development of curriculum in particle science and technology, new courses and a minor in particle science and technology. Faculty and industrial experts will jointly develop computer assisted learning modules, multimedia presentations and textbooks. A particle science and technology certificate program for industrial personnel will be implemented. The Center will initiate a vigorous outreach program to disseminate information to other academic and industrial institutions. A consortium of 30 large and medium, and 18 small companies will actively participate in the Center's research and educational programs, and four national laboratories will have joint research projects with the Center. Twenty-eight faculty members, 3 postdoctorals, 45 graduate and 25 undergraduate students from 12 departments will participate during the first year. The University of South Flori da and Columbia University will participate in the Center as subcontractors. This award established the ERC under an initial 5-year Cooperative Agreement. ***
