Advanced Electron Beams (AEB) has entered into a sponsored research agreement with the Department of Plastics Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Considered the premier plastics engineering program in the United States, the UMass department will explore the effect of low energy electron beams on polymers and plastics.

Under the direction of UMass Lowell professor Stephen McCarthy, Ph.D., and aided by AEB's technical representative Somchintana Norasetthekul, Ph.D., the sponsored research project will enable UMass Lowell to investigate low energy industrial electron beams at atmospheric pressure, and the effect that the beams have on polymeric and plastic materials. To maximize beneficial project results, the research team will study a wide range of substances under varying conditions.

"Working with AEB will enable research that will expand the department's understanding of electron beams and their benefits to industrial processing,” said McCarthy. "The information we gather and co-publish will examine methods for manufacturers to reduce energy consumption and eliminate the use of dangerous chemicals during their industrial processes.”

Involving graduate student research, this one-year project marks the beginning of a long-term innovative relationship between the UMass Lowell and AEB. During the course of this relationship, graduates will explore the chemical, physical and mechanical changes to the surface and thin film properties of a variety of polymeric and plastic materials under radiation, analyzing and documenting the results.

"This exciting partnership demonstrates the University's dedication to helping support the local innovation economy," said Mitch Tyson, CEO, Advanced Electron Beams. "We are committed to fund research and innovation that will expand the uses and resulting benefits of electron beam technology to improve industrial energy efficiency and reduce waste and pollution.”

"Through the sponsored research agreement with AEB, UMass Lowell students and researchers will have the chance to explore new avenues in plastics engineering. We expect the findings that result will benefit not only the University and AEB, but the entire field,” said UMass Lowell Chancellor Marty Meehan.

For more information, visit www.aeb.com.