Rhett C. Smith

Rhett C. Smith is a Professor of Chemistry at Clemson University, leading a research group dedicated to sustainable materials innovation since 2006. His work focuses on transforming industrial waste streams into high-performance composites through green chemistry approaches.

His academic background includes:

• B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Toledo
• Ph.D. in Chemistry from Case Western Reserve University
• NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship at MIT

Professor Smith's research pioneers waste valorization using elemental sulfur and biomass derivatives. Key areas include:

• Upcycling mixed plastic and food waste into structural materials
• Developing sulfur-based polymers for sustainable construction
• Creating circular economy solutions for agricultural byproducts

His group's work bridges fundamental chemistry with commercial applications in South Carolina's industrial sector.

Recent publications reveal a strong trend toward atom-economical processes using waste sulfur and biomass. The research emphasizes scalable technologies for plastic recycling and sustainable cement alternatives, with increasing focus on food waste upcycling and flame-retardant composites.

Major recognitions include:

• National Merit Scholar and NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship
• Two-time InnoVision Award Finalist (2024 Sustainability category)
• Fats and Proteins Research Foundation Innovate Award
• Fred Bisplingoff Research Innovation Award

Professor Smith has mentored over a dozen Ph.D. students to successful careers in national labs and industry. His group secured seven major grants in Spring 2024 from NSF, USDA, and industry partners to advance sustainable materials for structural applications. Current projects focus on upcycling post-consumer waste streams and developing carbon-negative building materials.

The Smith Research Group operates as a collaborative hub within Clemson's chemistry department, recently expanding to include four faculty co-leaders (Tennyson, Ashlyn Smith, and Sauceda). The team maintains strong industry partnerships while promoting academic accessibility through open educational resources.