Technical Narrative: This U.S.-Egypt collaborative research project involving the University of Cincinnati and Cairo University is in the general area of polymer chemistry. Project funding will enable Dr. Mohammed A. Sharaf, a highly qualified researcher from Cairo University, Egypt, to spend approximately two months in the laboratory of Dr. James E. Mark at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Mark and two of his research team will visit and work at Dr. Sharaf's laboratory in Cairo for various periods of time. This collaborative research project will investigate theoretical approaches in the area of rubberlike elasticity in order to elucidate the reinforcing effects of fillers in elastomers of commercial interest. This project in polymer chemistry fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling leading experts in the United States and Egypt to combine complementary talents and pool research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.
