The Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials at North Dakota State University (NDSU) has established itself as a leading player in coatings and polymer education and research. In a recent interview with Ph.D. Xiaoning Qi, assistant professor in the department, he highlighted how the institution, with over 100 years of experience, remains instrumental in developing solutions for the coatings industry.
An education focused on employability
The importance of this department lies not only in its extensive academic history, but also in its ability to connect fundamental research with real-world and industrial applications. Through its undergraduate and graduate programs, NDSU trains highly qualified professionals who are ready to face the challenges of the labor market.
Graduates of NDSU’s Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials are highly valued by the industry. The training programs are aligned with market needs, ensuring that graduates are fully prepared to face the challenges of the workplace, thus contributing to growth and innovation in the coating industry.
High-temperature coatings: A key project
One of the most notable areas of the Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials is its focus on applied research. During the AMPP 2025 event, Xiaoning Qi took the opportunity to showcase the department’s work and increase its visibility within the coating industry.
In addition to its collaborations with industry giants such as PPG and Sherwin-Williams, the department has launched initiatives that address specific industry needs. One notable example is the development of a novel high temperature coatings technology, which recently received a patent application. This breakthrough has the potential to boost a variety of industrial applications that require materials capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, significantly expanding the potential for coatings applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and energy.
A reference in education and applied research
NDSU’s Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials has established itself as a leader in coatings research and education, with a clear focus on applied innovation. Its work in high-temperature coatings demonstrates how academia and industry can collaborate to develop advanced technological solutions that benefit several key industries. With an ongoing commitment to educational excellence and research, NDSU continues to establish itself as a key pillar in the advancement of polymeric materials and industrial coatings.
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Source: Inspenet.
