Ohio state leads $26M NSF initiative

By Andi Anderson

The Ohio State University has received $26 million in funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at establishing domestic natural rubber production.

The project, named “Transformation of American Rubber through Domestic Innovation for Supply Security” (TARDISS), will be spearheaded by Ohio State and aims to reduce U.S. reliance on imported rubber while boosting the local economy.

The TARDISS Engineering Research Center will focus on developing alternative natural rubber sources, including guayule, the TK “rubber” dandelion, and mountain gum.

This innovative approach will connect engineering, biology, and agriculture to create a sustainable, domestic supply of rubber. The center will also support workforce development by training a new generation of engineers and agricultural experts, addressing current supply chain challenges.

Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. expressed pride in leading this initiative, emphasizing the university’s commitment to advancing local economies through research and innovation.

The center, led by Ohio State professors Judit Puskas and Ajay Shah, will collaborate with academic and industry partners, including major institutions like Caltech and North Carolina State University, and companies such as The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and Waters Corp.

The importance of this initiative is underscored by global challenges facing the rubber industry. The tropical rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis, which supplies most of the world’s natural rubber, is under threat from disease and rising demand.

The TARDISS center aims to address these vulnerabilities by establishing a reliable domestic supply, potentially positioning the U.S. as a leader in natural rubber production.

Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State’s vice president for agricultural administration, highlighted the project’s potential impact, noting that it aligns with the university’s mission to integrate research, education, and outreach.

This effort also marks the second NSF-funded Engineering Research Center at Ohio State in two years, reinforcing the university’s leadership in innovative research.

With industry support and cutting-edge technology, TARDISS is poised to revolutionize U.S. natural rubber production, creating economic opportunities and enhancing supply security for American industry.

Photo Credit: ohio-state-university