Partnerships with industry boosted after Australian Research Council grant success
Western Sydney University researchers have been given a boost in their quest to develop the next generation of fire-resistant building materials and optimise the interaction of natural compounds after securing prestigious Australian Research Council (opens in a new window) Linkage grants worth over $500,000.
Designed to support collaboration with industry and community partners, the successful ARC Linkage Grants showcase Western Sydney University's emphasis on pursuing research with tangible benefits for the community.
In partnership with Nu-Rock Technology, Professor Zhong Tao will lead a team of researchers to develop a new kind of fire-resistant concrete that will reduce the need for steel reinforcement within concrete-filled columns.
The project will enable the expansion of the domestic and worldwide market for Australian producers in the industry.
Associate Professor Chung Guang Li and a team of researchers will work with Integria Healthcare to better understand how ingredient synergy affects combinations of natural products.
By understanding how synergism works, the researchers aim to identify new synergistic compounds, leading to new products with a significant market advantage over those currently available.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Engagement, Development and International) Professor Scott Holmes says the University's success in securing funding with industry is particularly rewarding.
"Producing excellent research with practical outcomes for the community is a key part of Western Sydney University's overarching research mission," says Professor Holmes.
"These projects are a great example of how our researchers are collaborating with key industry partners to develop innovative new ways of doing business."
"On behalf of the University, I congratulate the researchers on their success, and look forward to seeing how their work helps change society for the better."
Ends
31 May 2017
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