Carson Meredith, a professor and associate chair for graduate studies in the School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, is participating in an initiative to develop ultra-strong, lightweight automotive structural components reinforced with nanocellulose.

Meredith and Meisha Shofner, associate professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), are representing Georgia Tech in a multi-entity partnership to use nanocellulose-polymer composites to be an economical and eco-friendly substitute for carbon-fiber composites used in luxury automobiles. For example, nanocellulose — a rapidly emerging, high-performance nanomaterial extracted from trees — could be used to replace heavy steel structures, such as the seat frames, in the cars. The result would be a lighter vehicle, which would lead to improved fuel economy.

Read more about the research at this link.