Rich Spontak

Rich Spontak is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State University, part of the College of Engineering. His research focuses on polymer morphology and structure-property relationships, with expertise in multifunctional polymers, nanostructured materials, and polymer composites. He leads the Polymer Morphology Group (PMG), which employs advanced microscopy and scattering techniques to study material behavior.

Research interests include: (1) microstructured polymers formed via supercritical CO₂ processing and mechanical alloying; (2) nanostructured systems like block copolymers and organic gels; (3) polymer composites with inorganic surfaces for barrier applications. Collaborations span academia and industry globally.

Key equipment includes energy-filtered TEM, cryoultramicrotomes, and SAXS instruments. Recent work emphasizes antimicrobial polymers (e.g., self-disinfecting surfaces) and carbon-capture membranes. Over 200 peer-reviewed publications highlight contributions to materials science, nanotechnology, and sustainable polymers.