The research agenda for The Nonwovens Institute is offered through its centers. The Nonwovens Cooperative Research Center (NCRC) serves the nonwovens industry through fundamental and applied research in the technologies of the industry and an active program of technology transfer. The Center has developed core research, non-core research, and product development activities.
The oversight committee for NCRC is an Industrial Advisory Board (IAB). Each Member Company (not Affiliates) is represented on the IAB. The Board meets at least twice a year and offers advice and guidance on the nature of the core research programs carried out in the Center. Research proposals are developed by the faculty in consultation with Member companies based on their perceptions of the needs of the nonwoven industry. The IAB helps prioritize these proposals for the funding decision. Progress reports of the research are presented to the IAB members and their technical representatives twice a year. The Board discusses the importance and quality of the results and recommends the Center's path forward. The Board also monitors operational aspects of the Center. It plays an important role in the recruitment of new members. It sets policy with regard to membership criteria and operation of the Center by updating and modifying the Bylaws.
Core Research
Core research programs are developed jointly by the Center faculty/staff and the NCRC member companies. Core research programs focus on areas such as
- the development of new materials
- the modification of existing materials
- basic studies that lead to a better understanding of technologies
- applied research directed at process material - property relationships
- the development of instrumentation and test methods for nonwoven fabrics
Core research programs are supported by funds from the State of North Carolina and fees from NCRC member companies. The results of the research are proprietary to the NCRC and to all member companies of the Center. This information is placed in the public domain, through presentations and publications, poster presentations, software, and patent disclosures, only after the approval of the Industrial Advisory Board of NCRC. The policies governing the ownership of intellectual property are discussed under the policy section.
NCRC supports has a total of 20 active research programs. Details of these programs are confidential until published.
NCRC Student Resumes
