American Ceramic Society

The American Ceramic Society

Abbreviation	ACerS
Founded	1898
Type	Nonprofit, professional
Focus	Ceramics
Location	470 Olde Worthington Road Suite 200 Westerville, Ohio
Area served	Worldwide
Method	Conferences, publications
Key people	Mark Mecklenborg, executive director
Website	https://ceramics.org

History

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Perspective

Creation (1898–1899)

At the dawn of the 20^th century, amidst the rapid industrialization of the United States, the importance of ceramics in technological advancements was becoming increasingly apparent. In response to this need, ACerS was formed with the dedication to promoting scientific research, technical advancements, and the practical applications of ceramic materials.^[3]

The genesis of ACerS took place at the February 1898 meeting of the National Brick Manufacturers’ Association in Pittsburgh, Pa. Elmer E. Gorton of American Terra Cotta & Ceramic Co. presented a paper entitled “Experimental Work, Wise and Otherwise.” This presentation was significant for being the first paper presented at the convention with a scientific focus, and it motivated the formation of a noncommercial society dedicated to the exchange of ideas and research on the science of ceramics.^[4] The organizational meeting to form this new society was held Feb. 6, 1899, in Orton Hall on The Ohio State University campus in Columbus, Ohio. But it was not until the first summer excursion meeting in July 1899 that the group settled on The American Ceramic Society as the official name.^[5]

The Society’s initial meetings and conventions were centered primarily on the production of traditional ceramics, such as pottery, structural clay, and refractories, which were thriving industries in Ohio and neighboring states at the time. Presentations at these meetings addressed the challenges faced by manufacturers and researchers alike. This focus expanded over time to include more advanced and diverse topics such as optical glass, electronic materials, and bioceramics.^[6]

Growth and expansion (1913–1946)

After its establishment in the field of ceramics science, ACerS underwent considerable growth in membership, publications, and influence. In 1918, the society began publishing Journal of the American Ceramic Society, which remains one of the most respected journals in the ceramics field.^[7] The Journal served as a platform to disseminate knowledge and research findings to the broader scientific community.

During World War II, ACerS scientists contributed significantly to the war effort by supporting the development of advanced ceramic materials for military applications, including radar technology, armor plating, and heat-resistant components for aircraft and rockets.^[8]^[9] ACerS members played a crucial role in advancing the development of ceramic materials for defense, aerospace, and electronics applications.^[10] The society's involvement in these industries helped establish its reputation as a leader in ceramics research and development.

Postwar era and technological advancements (1947–2010)

Following World War II, the ceramics industry experienced rapid growth, propelled by technological advancements in materials science. As a result, ACerS expanded its scope to include new areas of research, such as electronic ceramics, advanced structural ceramics, and biomaterials.^[11] To accommodate these growing fields, ACerS established various divisions and technical interest groups to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among members.^[12]

During this period, the society launched additional publications, such as International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology^[13] and International Journal of Applied Glass Science,^[14] to cater to the diverse interests of its members. ACerS' commitment to research and innovation contributed to the development of materials that had a significant impact on various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and biomedical.

Modern era (2010–present)

ACerS has also been instrumental in establishing and supporting various technical divisions, aimed at promoting specialized research and collaboration within specific areas of ceramic science and engineering.^[15] These divisions include the Electronics, Glass and Optical Materials, Nuclear and Environmental Technologies, and Structural Clay divisions, among others.

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Organization

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ACerS is organized into the following 11 divisions:^[16]

Art, Archaeology & Conservation Science advances the scientific understanding of the materials found in ceramic art, and provides information that aids in the interpretation, reconstruction and preservation of traditional ceramic art and artifacts, as well as the techniques used in their creation artistic purposes.
Basic Science is concerned with studying the chemistry and physics of ceramics.
Bioceramics is dedicated to stimulating the growth and activity of the Society, particularly in the areas of the science, engineering, and manufacturing of bioceramics, biocomposites, and biomaterials.
Cements centers on the development and manufacture of cements, limes, and plasters.
Electronics examines ceramic materials for use in electronic devices.
Energy Materials and Systems deals with the science and engineering of ceramic and glass materials and related technologies, as they apply to the harvesting, conversion, storage, transport and utilization of energy.
Engineering Ceramics deals with the use of ceramics and their composites as structural and mechanical components.
Glass & Optical Materials centers on the design, manufacture and use of glasses.
Manufacturing focuses on meeting the broader needs of today's manufacturers who produce or use ceramic and glass materials, including the entire supply chain. In addition to enhancing networking opportunities, it addresses new manufacturing processes and techniques, sustainability, and business and environmental issues.
Refractory Ceramics explores ceramics for use in high temperature and other hostile environments.
Structural Clay Products is concerned with the manufacture of brick, pipe, and red-body tile.

Classes

Keramos

Keramos was founded by ACerS in 1902 as a professional fraternity of ceramic engineering. It has active chapters at University of Arizona, University of Florida, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Iowa State University, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rutgers University, New York State College of Ceramics, Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University, Clemson University, and University of Washington.^[17]

National Institute of Ceramic Engineers

The National Institute of Ceramic Engineers (NICE) works with ABET to accredit collegiate programs in ceramics. Materials science and engineering programs that offer an option to specialize in ceramics are accredited by NICE in conjunction with The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS). NICE is also responsible for writing and administering the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam in ceramics engineering.^[18]

Ceramic Educational Council

The Ceramic Educational Council was founded in 1938 with the goal of improving ceramics education.^[19]