Each year, the Chemistry of Thermoplastic Elastomers Award is bestowed to honor significant contributions made to the advancement of the chemistry of thermoplastic elastomers. Renkert Oil, LLC was proud to sponsor this year’s award, which was first established by Rubber Division, ACS in 1991 as part of its continuing effort to recognize the contributions of scientists in this field. The U.S. is the world’s number one producer and consumer of oil, and since Renkert Oil’s clients often include businesses that rely on thermoplastic elastomers (also known as thermoplastic rubbers) to create their products, we have a vested interest in promoting the innovations of chemical researchers in this sector.
This award is specifically given to a researcher who has made outstanding contributions in the field of thermoplastic elastomer chemistry. Emphasis is typically placed on innovations that have brought about new additions to commercial or patentable materials; patentable innovations in process chemistry used in the production of new thermoplastic elastomers, therefore, are eligible for this award.
This year’s recipient, who was honored on May 1, was Virginia Tech Professor Tim Long. Professor Long was granted a $4,000 prize and engraved plaque to commemorate his contributions. Professor Long can now add the Thermoplastic Elastomers Award to his long list of recognitions — which include being named a AAAS Fellow, Virginia Outstanding Scientist of the Year, and various chairmanships and other research awards.
Although Renkert Oil is known as one of the top white mineral oil manufacturers and base oil suppliers in the nation, our organization is also an industry leader in premium process oil supply. We work regularly with clients who utilize these oils in rubber manufacturing, creating everything from footwear and textiles to insulation and adhesives. We are proud to support the ongoing innovation of outstanding researchers who further the development of thermoplastic elastomers.
As an independent oil distributor founded in 1987, Renkert Oil provides the high-quality products and services our clients need to make their own mark in history. Whether you need white mineral oil for an exciting food product or require Renoil products to reduce oil mobility in thermoplastic elastomers and other types of rubber, we’re here to help. For more information on our oils and how we can improve your end products, please contact us today.