GRT senior research scientist discusses breakthrough at 35th Australasian Polymer Symposium on the Gold Coast

Global Road Technology’s senior research scientist presented an abstract to 250 professionals at the 35th Australasian Polymer Symposium on Monday.

Dr Babak Abtahi focused on the polymers used for soil stabilization and erosion control, polymer interaction mechanisms, and recent breakthroughs in GRT’s state of the art chemistry and geotechnical laboratories during his guest speaking role at the four-day event, held at the Gold Coast’s QT Hotel, July 12-15.

His presentation described the problem that underlies evaluation of correlations between civil engineering and polymer science terms, which is extremely common in science. “We observe an association, or correlation, between two or more variables. However, correlation does not imply necessarily causation”. Abtahi said. “Moreover, working with industry creates the challenges of understanding and interpreting second languages. The solution is to establish scientific explanation for results in the way to connect the two sciences. We have to provide correlation between many variables.” For example: if we need high compression resistance in pavement design how we can translate it to mechanical properties of polymer or how water resistivity can be connected to hydrophobicity of polymer formulations.”

Managing director of Global Road Technology, Mr Troy Adams said the symposium explored all aspects of polymer science, from applied to fundamental, through an impressive line up of plenaries and invited keynote speakers.

The conference will also provided members of the international and national polymer community with the opportunity to network and interact.

The four-day format allowed delegates to join in formal and informal discussions in the areas of polymer science, engineering and technologies from the latest innovations in synthesis, characterization, processing and modeling to the advanced applications of polymers in health, energy and sustainability as well as future materials and devices.

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