Macromolecular Materials - From Synthesis to Application

The Macromolecular Materials Gordon Research Conference (formerly "Polymers West") has a long-standing tradition as a GRC that features a breadth of the most exciting and state-of-the-art aspects of macromolecules. This tradition will continue in the 2015 Conference and discussion of new macromolecules that are stimuli responsive and even made from sulfur will be highlighted. Macromolecular assemblies, biomaterials and even textiles will be considered. The invited speakers represent a variety of disciplines from chemistry, physics and engineering who will consider macromolecular material synthesis, processing, properties, characterization and theory and simulation. An emphasis of topics considered in this meeting will be rheological properties and processing of macromolecular materials.

Macromolecular materials are used to make many products and their utility stems from their broad range of properties made through very different synthesis schemes. Attendees will be exposed to this breadth in a collegial, interactive atmosphere. Programmed discussion sessions together with informal gatherings in the afternoon and evening will allow scientists and engineers from various disciplines to enjoy the richness of macromolecular materials and develop professional relations not easily made in other venues.

The Macromolecular Materials GRC will host a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on the weekend prior to the GRC. The GRS provides a GRC-like meeting experience, consisting solely of younger researchers (graduate students and postdocs) who organize the meeting, and present talks and posters on their research, in a GRC-style. The topics of the 2-day GRS will also be centered on macromolecules, and attendees are encouraged to stay for the ensuing Macromolecular Materials GRC.