Washburn Group

Research in the Washburn Group focuses on the intersection of materials chemistry and sustainability. We develop a fundamental understanding of some of the most widely used materials in the world and leverage this to reducing their environmental impact. Our current studies center on biobased polyurethane elastomers and limestone/calcined clay cements (LC3). Machine learning is a central tool that we use in the design process. We have developed the hierarchical machine learning algorithm as a methodology for building accurate models from small, experimental datasets. Students in the Washburn Group gain expertise in both laboratory research and data science, making them uniquely prepared to address critical challenges in materials sustainability.