Polymer research, EPIC

This research was generously supported by the National Science Foundation (Grant EEC93-20054) and the Edison Polymer Innovation Corp. (EPIC) of Brecksville, OH. 

Polymers and biopolymers are indispensable materials in pharmacy. The number and importance of polymer-structured active substances (e.g. enzymes, hormones, and antibiotics) are increasing continuously. Interesting references to auxiliary materials of polymeric character were already made as long ago as in the ancient written records on medicines, e.g. Ebers Papyrus, the Bible, or Greek epics. Karl Thoma, one of the most prominent researchers in this field, talked about the explosive increase of auxiliary materials used in modern drug preparations. 

The generic research portfolio presently includes over sixty projects, representing an investment of 5 million, and it is increasing by 1 million per year. Thus, it represents a significant bank of polymer science and technology which members can draw upon. Eventually most of the research is published, but member companies get an early look at the research results, and EPIC and the universities have an agreement that patent rights will be protected before publication is permitted. 

In EPIC, it is apparent that the major polymer companies are impressed with the quality of the program. Research investing membership has increased from the 12 founding companies to over 70 members, and the revenues from membership fees have increased more than 50% in each of the last two years. 

The SEM work was performed at the EPIC facility at NUANCE. High-temperature GPC was conducted by Mr. Anthony M. Condo, Jr. at Cornell Center for Materials Research Polymer Characterization Eacility. 

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