By: Crystal Carter, Texas A&M Innovation
Dr. Robert Balog, a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Dr. Jaime Grunlan, the Leland T. Jordan ’29 Chair Professor of Mechanical Engineering, have been named as 2024 Fellows of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This prestigious honor recognizes academic inventors whose innovative contributions have made a tangible impact on society. (Read more) Links to article
“Congratulations to Dr. Balog and Dr. Grunlan on this well-deserved recognition,” said Pete ONeill, chief innovation officer at The Texas A&M University System. “Their work reflects the highest standards of innovation, addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This acknowledgment is a testament to their tireless dedication and the transformative power of their research.”
Pioneering Flame Retardant Technology: Dr. Jaime Grunlan
Dr. Jaime Grunlan has redefined the field of flame retardant nanocoatings by creating environmentally friendly, water-based treatments. His groundbreaking work addresses critical safety and environmental concerns in flame retardancy, particularly for flammable textiles such as cotton, polyester, and nylon. His coatings are thin, effective, and free of the toxic chemistries often found in conventional treatments, ensuring both fire safety and wearer comfort.
Dr. Grunlan’s 17 U.S. patents have led to licensing agreements with six companies that are working to commercialize his inventions. These efforts aim to revolutionize safety in industries ranging from children’s sleepwear to industrial textiles. “The transformative potential of my flame-retardant technologies excites me,” said Grunlan. “I’m thrilled to see industries adopting safer, more sustainable approaches.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Grunlan’s five-year goals include scaling up his technologies for broader commercial use and expanding his work into new applications, such as high-voltage insulation thin films. “High voltage insulation thin films is becoming a hot topic and this new area for my research group is generating some exciting new materials.”
Advancing Solar Energy and Electrical Safety: Dr. Robert Balog
Dr. Robert Balog has been instrumental in advancing the integration of photovoltaic (PV) energy into the electrical grid. His research focuses on the early detection of electrical arcs in direct-current (DC) systems, such as PV panels and batteries, which are critical for preventing fires and ensuring safety.
With 22 U.S. patents and multiple international patents, Dr. Balog’s work has already been adopted by industry. “The intersection of renewable energy and safety is where innovation can truly change lives,” said Balog. “I’m inspired by the potential to make clean energy safer and more reliable for everyone.”
In the next five years, Dr. Balog aims to develop even more efficient methods for detecting and mitigating electrical hazards, while continuing to explore the intersection of energy systems and AI-driven diagnostics.
Driving the Future of Innovation
Both Grunlan and Balog exemplify the A&M System’s commitment to facilitating groundbreaking research and increasing societal impact. Their induction as NAI Fellows highlights the importance of fostering a culture of innovation.
“As we look ahead,” said Pete ONeill, “we are inspired by their vision and excited for the profound contributions they will undoubtedly continue to make.”
The Texas A&M University System celebrates these inventors’ achievements and eagerly anticipates their future contributions to engineering, safety, and sustainability.
