English 
EXTON, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has awarded funding to AGC Chemicals Americas, Inc., (AGCCA) in partnership with Penn State University’s Materials Characterization Lab. The funding will support research into how the structure and properties of AGCCA’s RESIFA™ silica microspheres influence their performance through comprehensive characterization of their physical, chemical and surface properties.
The research aims to provide a deeper understanding of the surface and pore characteristics of RESIFA silica and how they influence material performance across a range of applications. These insights may
help AGCCA expand future uses in polymerization, carbon capture, food science and pharmaceuticals.
AGCCA will collaborate with Professor Joshua Stapleton at Penn State’s Materials Characterization Lab, whose expertise includes multi-technique characterization of silica-based materials.
“Collaborating with AGC Chemicals Americas on this DCED-supported project enables the Penn State Materials Characterization Lab to partner directly on applied manufacturing challenges while supporting workforce development,” said Professor Stapleton. “The MCL is working with AGC to address current production needs, expand the skills of an existing technician, and provide a Penn State student with hands-on experience relevant to a Pennsylvania manufacturer.”
Will Salem, Manager of Functionalized Materials at AGCCA, added, “We’re excited to partner with Penn State’s Materials Characterization Laboratory on this DCED-supported project. It allows us to better understand how the material structure and surface chemistry of our RESIFA™ silica influences performance. Access to advanced characterization tools will help us evaluate new applications while creating valuable hands-on learning opportunities with Penn State experts for both students and AGC team members.”
The project will start in June 2026 and continue through May 2027.
Find information about grades of RESIFA™ used in consumer, industrial and analytical applications:
- RESIFA™ SOLESPHERE™ silicas for cosmetics, personal care and skin care formulations.
- RESIFA™ M.S.GEL silica particles for chromatography materials.
- RESIFA™ SUNSPERA™ fine silica products for catalyst support.
- RESIFA™ SUNLOVELY™ fine silica particles for industrial applications and binders/fillers.
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About AGC Chemicals Americas, Inc.
AGC Chemicals Americas is a global subsidiary of AGC Inc., a multinational corporation and one of the world’s largest manufacturers of glass, electronic displays and chemical products. Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, including a state-of-the-art technology center, AGC Chemicals Americas maintains manufacturing operations in nearby Thorndale, Pennsylvania, a satellite sales office in Guaratingueta, Brazil, and warehouses located throughout North America. www.agcchem.com
