In the second of NIA’s ‘Nano in Action’ series takes a look at opportunities and applications of nanomaterials into composites.
The webinar introduces nanomaterials within composites – what they are, how you make them, how they work and where the challenges lie, before hearing from NIA Members involved in nanocomposite development.
Speakers:
Dr Ben Hargreaves, Business Manager Conventive Composites (UK) 
Ben joined Coventive Composites in 2009, initially working on the development of halogen-free fire retardant unsaturated polyester nanocomposites. He is currently responsible for the management of Coventive’s commercial services business, having previously led Coventive’s research and development activities in the field of nanocomposites. Prior to joining Coventive, he worked for Mettler Toledo Ltd, specialising in process analytical instrumentation for the chemical, pharmaceutical, semi-conductor and brewery sectors. He holds a degree and PhD in chemistry, both obtained at the University of Sheffield with the latter being sponsored by Sealed Air Ltd. He also holds an MBA from The Open University
Steve Wilcenski, CEO and Founder BNNano (US) 
Over the last 20 years, Steve has been an active member of teams designing and developing technologies and products on the micro and nano-scale. Many of these products have enabled disruptive technologies for markets including Defense, Aerospace, Biomedical, Automotive, Communications and Consumer Electronics. Prior to co-founding BNNano, Steve was the President and General Manager for the MEMS Business Unit of MEMSCAP, SA. Steve earned a B.S. in Material Science and Engineering from North Carolina State University, a M.S. in Chemistry from Clemson University and an MBA from NCSU.
Mgr. Jan Buk, CEO Pardam Nanotechnology (CZ) 
Chief Operating Officer at PARDAM s.r.o. a company focusing on development and production of nanofibrous materials (polymeric and inorganic) utilizing Centrifugal Spinning Technology. Graduated at Charles University in Prague. Vice President of the Czech Association of Nanotechnology Industry, Member of the Board of the Czech Association of Applied Photo Catalyzes. Experienced in Project management focused on Development and Production of Nanofibrous materials and applications for nanofibrous materials. Co-author of several patents, utility models and applications. Within the company is responsible for coordinating R&D projects (commercial and EU funded), Production, Product and Business development. Great experiences with Electrospinning and Centrifugal Spinning technologies and both types of nanofibrous materials (Inorganic and Polymeric) including know how on production, technology, postreatment and application of those materials into commercial products.
