Jan 13 2005
The new Energetic Materials Research Centre (EMRC) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) will pioneer the development of Singapore’s research capabilities in the area of energetic materials. These materials, which contain energised components, are commonly used in explosives, propellants and pyrotechnics.
The Centre is established and headed by Emeritus Professor Ang How Ghee. Professor Ang, newly conferred with the Singapore Defence Technology Distinguished Fellowship by Ministry of Defence, has achieved prominence among the energetic research community over just a short span of four years.
Under his leadership, the new EMRC at NTU will forge collaborative partnerships with prominent scientists all over the world, including those from Sweden, Germany and China. Aside from collaborative research, these scientists will also help raise awareness of this new field of energetic research by conducting lectures and seminars in Singapore. The Centre also aims to groom local and overseas talent to advance knowledge in the new field of energetic research.
“I hope the new Energetic Materials Research Centre in NTU will be able to take on the position as the focal point for research done in this field. I am very excited as we are embarking on pioneering research which might potentially lead to the discovery of new synthesis, high-performing energetic polymers, deeper understanding of the sensitivity and compatibility issues of the energetic materials to ensure safety, and the application of nanotechnology in developing protective materials”, says Professor Ang.
“To drive the development of a new generation of energetic materials, we must adopt a multi-disciplinary approach for energetic research. I believe with EMRC being a part of the already-thriving NTU research environment, we can put Singapore on the world map of energetic research.”
Professor Ang is no stranger to being a pioneer in building up research capabilities. He was instrumental in the build-up of Singapore’s chemical defence capability by drawing up the master plan to develop this capability. Besides establishing close collaboration with overseas partners, Professor Ang also played a key role in grooming talent in chemical defence research.