Globalization of Materials R&D : Time for a National Strategy

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) R&D is spreading globally at an accelerating rate.

As a result, the relative U.S. position in a number of MSE subfields is in a state of flux.

To understand better this trend and its implications for the U.S. economy and national security, the Department of Defense (DOD) asked the NRC to assess the status and impacts of the global spread of MSE R&D.

This report presents a discussion of drivers affecting U.S. companies' decisions about location of MSE R&D, an analysis of impacts on the U.S. economy and national security, and recommendations to ensure continued U.S. access to critical MSE R&D. Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1 Materials as Global Activity: Setting the Scene2 Globalization of Materials Research & Development Activity3 Benchmarking of Materials Science and Engineering R&D4 The Regulatory Regime as a Driver5 Assessing the Impacts of Materials Science and EngineeringR&D Globalization6 Conclusions and RecommendationsAppendix A Committee BiographiesAppendix B Presentations to the Committee at its Public MeetingsAppendix C Global Trends in MSE PatentsAppendix D Global Trends in Literature AuthorshipAppendix E Results of Community PollAppendix F Superalloy Case StudyAppendix G Environmental and Safety and Health RegulationsAppendix H Defining 21st Century Defense Needs