API offers innovation award

By David Reed, UT EditorArlington, Virginia-Innovators have until 31 Aug. to submit entries for the first-ever innovation award from the API (Alliance for the Polyurethanes Industry).The 'Infinite possibilities of polyurethane innovation award' will be presented at the Polyurethanes 2005 Technical Conference & Trade Fair, running 16-19 Oct. in Houston, Texas. It will focus on the most innovative use of polyurethane in an end-use product, according to a 7 July announcement from the API."API would like to highlight the efforts and foresight of companies and individuals whose visions and perseverance have brought new products to the marketplace," says Dick Mericle, executive director of API, in the announcement. "Otto Bayer's discovery of polyurethane in 1937 has since led to its use in automotive, medical and agricultural applications, to name just a few. Discovering new and brilliant applications is an integral part of R&D in our industry, and this year's award will shine the spotlight on those that continue to chart new frontiers for the future of polyurethanes," his statement added.Companies or individuals interested in providing an entry for the award must fill out and submit an entry form by 31 Aug. 2005. This form is available at www.polyurethane.org. A panel of four judges, spanning a range of experience from trade associations, industry, and academia, will pick four finalists from the total number of entries. These entries will be displayed during the Polyurethanes 2005 Technical Conference & Trade Fair, and conference attendees will have a chance to vote for the finalist they believe shows the most innovative use of polyurethane in a product. The results will be announced at the conference's closing session on Wednesday, 19 Oct. 2005."