9320056 El-Aasser This award is for a joint research effort between Case Western Reserve University's Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Applied Polymers and Lehigh University's Industry/University's Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Polymer Interfaces. The project "Novel Design Concepts in Core/Shell Particles for Toughening Engineering Plastics" is to be cost-shared by both Centers. EniChem America is also contributing a significant effort in processing and scale-up of the new materials for testing. This "TIE" project is studying a novel toughening concept which involves the synthesis of new rubber latex particles composed of an IPN network of two elastomers, inter-facially bonded in a controlled manner to the matrix plastics. The two I/UCRCs have the qualified staff and facilities to address this project synergistically. The Program Manager recommends Lehigh University be awarded $25,000 for the first year of a two-year continuing award.
