Rep. Sykes Announces Nearly $5.5 Million in Federal Funding for the University of Akron
AKRON, OH — Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced that the University of Akron received two federal grants totaling $5,439,739 from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). The projects that were awarded funding are aimed at developing disruptive and ambitious technologies that advance America’s energy future.
“Ohio’s 13th Congressional District has long been known for its scientific innovation and creativity – and the University of Akron plays a huge role in that. These grants will support projects to help ensure the University of Akron continues to lead the way to a future in technology that creates jobs and opportunities for our region,” said Rep. Sykes.
“This recognition underscores the exceptional research and innovation taking place at The University of Akron. The groundbreaking work of Dr. James Eagan in advancing sustainable plastic recycling and Dr. Yilmaz Sozer’s development of energy integration technology reflects our commitment to solving critical global challenges. These projects not only enhance the University’s reputation as a hub for impactful research but also hold the potential to transform industries and improve lives,” said Suzanne Bausch, vice president of research and business engagement at the University of Akron.
Two University of Akron projects received funding. The first, titled the Chemi-Mechanical Recycling of Mixed Plastic Residues by Reactive Solvothermal Blending and Purification Project, was awarded $3,143,289. The project aims to develop a chemi-mechanical recycling technology that can blend and purify mixed plastics. It is a novel method for removing volatile organic compounds and pigments to produce reusable plastic films of manufacturing quality. The proposed technology will be applicable to plastic manufacturers, recyclers, and material recovery facilities to benefit consumer packaged goods companies.
The second project, titled the Double Alternating Current Overhead Circuit Utilization with Blended DC Transmission Line Edging Project, was awarded $2,296,450. The project aims to develop energy integration technology to enhance the transmission and distribution capacity of existing alternating current (AC) lines by blending with the high voltage direct current (DC) energy networks. It is intended to achieve active DC and AC blocking through power converters to segregate AC and DC at relevant sources and loads. The proposed technology will be applicable to electric transmission, distribution, and energy storage sectors.
Since its inception, ARPA-E’s OPEN program has advanced transformative energy breakthroughs in critical areas beyond the agency’s focused technology programs. Vision OPEN now challenges researchers to develop groundbreaking technologies aligned with three goals: (1) abundant primary energy, (2) an intermodal energy superhighway for diverse primary energy forms, and (3) carbon utilization for chemicals and materials. Achieving these goals will require rapid development and deployment of disruptive technologies.