Recognizing the central role of catalysis in industrial practice, the Center for Catalytic Science and Technology (CCST) was founded at the University of Delaware in 1978. The Center has pioneered multidisciplinary research in the scientific and engineering principles of catalysis.

One hallmark of CCST’s research continues to be our strong connection to industry. These ties have been forged through multiple mechanisms, including CCST’s Industrial Sponsors Program, industry-supported grant and contract research, collaborative projects with industrial scientists and engineers, and industrial sabbaticals and exchanges of research personnel.

Our laboratories and wide range of research instrumentation represent one of the foremost facilities for catalysis research in academia. Virtually all CCST laboratories have been newly constructed or renovated since 1993, including expansion into the 194,000-square-foot Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering (ISE) building in 2013.

For decades, CCST has provided research opportunities in all aspects of catalysis to students and postdoctoral fellows in UD’s Chemical Engineering and Chemistry & Biochemistry departments. A central pillar of our mission remains focused on educating students in the multi-disciplinary field of catalysis science. The “products” of this venture include not only the participating researchers – more than 70% of whom have historically gone on to positions with CCST Industrial Sponsors – but also a substantial body of publications in scientific literature as well as a significant patent portfolio.

Want to know more? Read about Our History.