Ohio Third Frontier Commission recommends $2.1 million to establish center: The Ohio Third Frontier Commission has awarded Youngstown State University with a $2.1 million grant to establish a Center for Excellence in Advanced Materials Analyses in collaboration with Fireline TCON Inc. and the Ohio Supercomputer Center. The project will focus on research, analyses, modeling and commercialization of products with increased resistance to thermal shock and lower thermal conductivity. At the new facility, Fireline will further develop new refractory materials for the processing of liquid aluminum. The work will improve liquid aluminum-resistant refractory materials for use during molten metal handling, melt treatment and castings. Additional applications include lightweight braking systems and body armor for soldiers. “We’re extremely pleased to be involved in this collaborative effort as part of our Blue Collar Computing initiative,” said Ashok Krishnamurthy, senior director of research at the Ohio Supercomputer Center. “Our goal with Blue Collar Computing is to help companies build better products, cut production costs, quickly solve problems, and streamline overall efficiency. OSC will provide access to its high-powered supercomputers to the center, as well as support YSU mechanical engineers as they develop and test new software to model the reactions of the liquid aluminum.” Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher, chair of the Ohio Third Frontier Commission, recently announced seven grant projects – including the Advanced Materials Analyses Center – that totaled $19.6 million in funding through the Ohio Third Frontier Wright Projects Program. All the recommended programs aim to commercialize research projects in areas such as pathogen detection, rubber production and fuel cells. The awards are contingent upon State Controlling Board approval. “These projects demonstrate the teamwork between our educational institutions and private companies that is so critical to ensuring a solid foundation for our growing industries,” said Fisher, who also serves as director of the Ohio Department of Development. “Strengthening the links among education, research, and economic development is not only our mission but our obligation in making sure we attract and retain jobs of the future.”