Emmett Crawford, research associate in Polymers Technology, Eastman, today received the Society of Chemical Industry (SCI) 2010 Gordon E. Moore Medal by the Chemical Heritage Foundation at Innovation Day 2010 in Philadelphia for lead inventor of Eastman Tritan copolyester.
The SCI Gordon E. Moore Medal recognizes a breakthrough innovation made by an industrial scientist younger than 45 years old. The award acknowledges innovations that have a significant impact on a company's business by creating a new market, expanding an existing market, or commercializing new process technology. Additional criteria include the importance of illuminating emerging areas of applied chemistry and demonstrating the positive impact of applied chemistry on the quality of life.
"Receiving this award demonstrates the dedication and successful collaboration across various organizations within Eastman," Crawford said. "Working on the development of Eastman Tritan copolyester was rewarding, and it has been exciting to see its practical application in so many products from water bottles and infant care to medical devices and packaging."
In 2001, Crawford began examining efforts made decades earlier by Eastman scientists working to develop a material with higher heat resistance. During his review, Crawford identified new opportunities and raised questions to help the Eastman team overcome previous obstacles. Focused on addressing initial technical issues of polymer production, Crawford supported the application and successful development and commercialization of Eastman Tritan copolyester.
Eastman Tritan copolyester is a new-generation material that balances the properties of clarity, toughness and heat and chemical resistance, and is manufactured without bisphenol A (BPA). Since the launch of Tritan in 2007 into three initial industries - reusable sports water bottles, housewares and small appliances - it is now being used in seven industries, including medical, infant care, bulk water and signs.
"Overcoming the challenges of inventing and bringing to market new materials like Eastman Tritan copolyester demonstrates the commitment to innovation and collaboration at Eastman," said Greg Nelson, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Eastman. "We applaud Emmett for his leadership, and thank all of our employees who consistently push the boundaries and strive for success so that we can continue to provide material solutions that allow our customers to create new products."
Crawford joined Eastman in 1999 as an advanced research scientist. He holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from North Carolina State University and a doctorate degree in polymer science and engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.