Globalization of Materials R&D

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) R&D is spreading globally at an accelerating rate. As a result, the relative U.S. position in a number of MSE subfields is in a state of flux. To understand better this trend and its implications for the U.S. economy and national security, the Department of Defense (DOD) asked the NRC to assess the status and impacts of the global spread of MSE R&D. This report presents a discussion of drivers affecting U.S. companies' decisions about location of MSE R&D, an analysis of impacts on the U.S. economy and national security, and recommendations to ensure continued U.S. access to critical MSE R&D. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Materials as Global Activity: Setting the Scene 2 Globalization of Materials Research & Development Activity 3 Benchmarking of Materials Science and Engineering R&D 4 The Regulatory Regime as a Driver 5 Assessing the Impacts of Materials Science and Engineering R&D Globalization 6 Conclusions and Recommendations Appendix A Committee Biographies Appendix B Presentations to the Committee at its Public Meetings Appendix C Global Trends in MSE Patents Appendix D Global Trends in Literature Authorship Appendix E Results of Community Poll Appendix F Superalloy Case Study Appendix G Environmental and Safety and Health Regulations Appendix H Defining 21st Century Defense Needs