ABSTRACT EEC - 9726048 LEE The polymer industry is one of the major industries of the U.S. and it continues to grow. Research in polymer composites is an important growing sector which needs research to maintain the U.S. lead in the global market. A planning grant (EEC-9612323) was awarded to Ohio State University to determine if an Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Advanced Polymer and Composite Engineering was feasible and viable. As a result of the planning award, Ohio State University has raised $296,000 in membership funds and approximately another $300,000 in "in-kind" support for an Industry/University Research Center for Advanced Polymer and Composition Engineering. The research agenda for the Center will address projects in Advanced Plastics Processing, Thermostat Polymers and Composite Manufacturing, Joining of Plastic Parts via Integral Attachments and Design and Die/Mold Manufacturing. The award is being cost shared by Dr. J. Lee, Program Director, Materials Processing and Manufacturing Program.