George Scherrer stands as a pillar in the field of materials science, recognized globally for his groundbreaking research in sol-gel science, the chemistry of cement, and the preservation of historic structures. After a fruitful twenty-one-year tenure at Princeton University, Scherrer’s retirement marks the end of an era of innovation and discovery.
Educational Journey: From MIT to Doctorate
Born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey, Scherrer’s academic path was charted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he embarked on a combined bachelor’s and master’s program in ceramics, later earning a Ph.D. in materials science. His doctoral thesis on “Crystal Growth in Binary Silicate Glasses” set the stage for his future contributions to the field.
Early Career: Innovations in Glass Science at Corning
Scherrer’s professional journey commenced at Corning Glass Works, where his research into glass science yielded numerous patents and laid the foundational knowledge he would later bring to his academic career.
Contributions at DuPont: Pioneering Sol-Gel Science
At DuPont, Scherrer’s exploration of sol-gel science culminated in seminal papers and the authoritative book, “Sol-Gel Science: The Physics and Chemistry of Sol-gel Processing,” co-authored with Jeff Brinker, marking a significant milestone in the field.
Transition to Academia: A New Chapter at Princeton
In 1996, Scherrer ventured into academia, joining Princeton’s Department of Civil Engineering and Operations Research, where he notably shifted his research focus to the science of cement, introducing innovative mathematical models to address complex material degradation phenomena.
Legacy in Cement and Concrete Research
At Princeton, Scherrer became a leading authority in cement and concrete research, employing sophisticated models to elucidate phenomena like salt scaling, which had long puzzled researchers.
Contributions to Historic Conservation
Expanding his research scope, Scherrer applied his materials science expertise to conserving historic structures, enhancing the understanding of their deterioration and methods for their preservation.
Publications and Accolades
Over his career, Scherrer has published more than 320 peer-reviewed articles and was elected into the National Academy of Engineering in 1997, among other accolades, for his contributions to materials science.
Philosophy of Science and Mentorship
Renowned for his humility, Scherrer views science not as competition but as a collaborative puzzle, a philosophy that has shaped his approach to mentorship and collaboration throughout his career.
Impactful Teaching and Student Mentorship at Princeton
As an educator, Scherrer has significantly influenced both undergraduate and graduate students, instilling in them a deep understanding of material sciences, even as he learned alongside them in hands-on courses like “Materials in Civil Engineering.”
Key Contributions of George Scherrer
- Foundational Work in Glass Science: Pioneered at Corning Glass Works, leading to significant patents and advancements in the field;
- Sol-Gel Science Innovator: Authored the seminal book on sol-gel processing, setting a benchmark in the study and application of this technology;
- Shift to Cement Science: Transitioned research focus to cement and concrete at Princeton, developing models that explained complex material behaviors;
- Preservation of Historic Structures: Extended materials science expertise to the conservation of historic monuments, offering insights into their longevity and preservation;
- Academic Excellence: Published over 320 peer-reviewed articles, contributing profoundly to the fields of materials science and engineering;
- Elected to National Academy of Engineering: Recognized for his significant contributions to glass and ceramic processing;
- Mentorship and Education: Inspired countless students at Princeton through innovative teaching and hands-on learning experiences in material sciences;
- Collaborative Approach to Science: Advocated for a non-competitive, puzzle-solving approach to scientific research, fostering a supportive academic environment.
Sweetwater Mine: A Legacy in Material Preservation
Among the numerous contributions made by George Scherrer to the field of materials science, one particular area of his research that stands out is his work on the Sweetwater Mine project. This unique endeavor not only showcased his expertise in sol-gel science and the conservation of historic structures but also highlighted his innovative approach to preserving the integrity of geological materials within mining contexts.
- Historic Preservation Techniques: Scherrer applied cutting-edge preservation methods to maintain the structural and chemical integrity of materials extracted from Sweetwater Mine, ensuring that these materials could be studied and utilized for years to come;
- Innovative Material Analysis: Through meticulous analysis, Scherrer was able to unlock the secrets held within the mine’s geological specimens, contributing significantly to our understanding of material properties and their applications;
- Sustainable Mining Practices: Advocating for sustainable practices within the mining industry, Scherrer’s work at Sweetwater Mine served as a model for environmentally responsible material extraction and conservation;
- Educational Outreach: By incorporating his findings from the Sweetwater Mine project into his teaching, Scherrer inspired countless students at Princeton to explore the intersections between material science, conservation, and sustainable mining.
The Sweetwater Mine project exemplifies George Scherrer’s broader impact on the field of materials science, showcasing his dedication to applying scientific principles for the betterment of both industry practices and the preservation of our cultural heritage. Through his innovative research and passionate teaching, Scherrer has left an indelible mark on the world of material conservation and the sustainable stewardship of natural resources.
Conclusion
George Scherrer’s career is a testament to the impact one scientist can have across multiple disciplines, from the fundamentals of material science to the preservation of our cultural heritage. As he transitions into retirement, his legacy of innovation, collaboration, and education continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.