Crystallizing Research Kent’s liquid crystal cluster spurs job growth Story by Heather Johnston Johnson Photography by Jeff Adkins
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iquid crystal displays largely began in Northeast Ohio, and technology insiders are working to boost the technology cluster that surrounds them with more innovation. LCDs and similar products are set for wider marketability as more uses for liquid crystals are discovered. The research has economic implications since flexible electronics, or electronic devices printed on flexible plastic, are an important growth area for Ohio. The combination of emerging technology and existing products could bring around 1,000 jobs to the state, according to a 2009 study on the state’s technology industry conducted by SRI International. Technology Brings Jobs Business leaders and university researchers aren’t content to leave product development times to chance. They’re stepping up to form partner ships that will speed the phases between Left: A chemist examines liquid crystals at Kent State University’s Liquid Crystal Institute. Right: Liquid crystals are separated out of a solution in the lab at the Liquid Crystal Institute.
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