The next installment of the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program and the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (SERDP & ESTCP) webinar series honors the work of Fred Lafferman, a coatings chemist who dedicated his career to research, development, and transitioning coatings for use on Department of Defense (DoD) assets. Lafferman passed away in July of 2020, but his work continues to inspire all of the researchers he collaborated with during his 53-year career. This presentation will provide an overview of his contributions, as well as some poignant personal experiences.
As a recognized coatings expert, Lafferman’s ability to network and collaborate enabled significant advancements for the DoD. His early efforts in the arena of topcoats set the foundation for currently fielded urethanes and facilitated the advances that contributed to the water reducible and powder coat CARC (chemical agent resistant coating) systems. His recent work in the field of pretreatments led to the transition of chromium-free surface treatments that enhance corrosion resistance of the total coating system while providing a safer material to end users. Additionally, Lafferman’s foresight and knowledge of the degradation of organic coatings has guided the U.S. Army Research Laboratory towards data science and predictive modeling for corrosion mitigation.
Speakers:
Dr. Robin Nissan, Program Manager for the Weapons Systems and Platforms program area of SERDP and ESTCP
John Escarsega, a research chemist providing contract support for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL)
Jack Kelley, ARL Camouflage, Coatings and Corrosion Team
Daniel Pope, ARL Camouflage, Coatings and Corrosion Team