The American Ceramic Society is a non-profit professional organization for the ceramics community, with a focus on scientific research, emerging technologies, and applications in which ceramic materials are an element. It is located in Westerville, Ohio. It comprises more than 11,000 members from 80 countries, with membership including engineers, scientists, researchers, manufacturers, plant personnel, educators, students, and marketing and sales representatives.
History
ACerS was founded in 1899 by nine members of the National Brick Manufacturer's Association. The previous year at the association's annual convention in Pittsburgh, Elmer E. Gorton of American Terra Cotta & Ceramic Co. presented a paper entitled “Experimental Work, Wise and Otherwise." This paper was significant for being the first presented at the convention with a scientific focus, and motivated the formation of a non-commercial society dedicated to the exchange of ideas and research on the science of ceramics. The American Ceramic Society was officially formed on February 6, 1899, at its first annual meeting, which was held in Columbus, Ohio.
Organization
ACerS is organized into the following eleven divisions :
Art, Archaeology and 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 stimulate 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.
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.
