The National Institute of Standards and Technology is investing a total of almost $54 million in 13 research and development projects focused on how manufacturing can support pandemic response.
These projects run at eight manufacturing innovation institutes in the Manufacturing USA network, with the cooperation of over 80 partners including small and large businesses, nonprofits and universities, NIST said Monday. The American Rescue Act provided the funds for these grants.
Tackled topics include disposable photonics-based point-of-care sensors, a decision framework for robotics and automation, a domestic supply chain for vaccine manufacturing and the scaling of advanced respirator production.
Manufacturing USA consists of public-private partnerships specializing in advanced manufacturing applications, such as robotics, chip production and additive manufacturing.
Grant recipients under NIST’s new investment include the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, BioMADE, North Carolina State University and Advanced Functional Fabrics of America.
“Rebuilding our manufacturing economy is an essential component to strengthening our communities and creating opportunity for all Americans,” said Gina Raimondo, the secretary of commerce.
