Sterling Sweningson

Dr. Sweningson is an organic chemist specializing in polymer science, liquid crystals, and molecule synthesis. He has a strong background in multistep chemical synthesis, purification, and characterization of diverse small molecules and polymers. Dr. Sweningson has experience using his strong knowledge of structure-property relationships to prepare additive packages to enhance the performance of bulk network polymers, such as adhesives and rubber materials for use in construction materials and building components, and to formulate liquid crystalline materials for use in displays and other mesogen-based applications.

Dr. Sweningson leverages soft material characterization techniques as well as analytical chemistry tools, including polarized optical microscopy (POM), thermal analysis (e.g., TGA and DSC), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), spectroscopy (NMR, UV-Vis, and GC/LC-MS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and rheometry. He is an expert in fine chemical purification techniques such as distillation and sublimation.

Prior to joining Exponent, Dr. Sweningson completed his Ph.D. thesis in polymer chemistry at the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the Georgia Institute of Technology. His research focused on the synthesis and modification of dynamic polymers and liquid crystals into both structural and optical applications for use in construction materials and liquid crystal displays. While at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Dr. Sweningson managed the EH&S compliance of hazardous chemical storage.