VT College of Science Magazine Spring 2009 | Page 7

5
eCathode
Polymer
membrane backing

Anode
current
collector

o f

Polymer matrix

Anode
backing

C o l l e g e

eThis illustration shows the innovative fuel cell
structure developed by McGrath and his team.

H2

Pt/C/H2O layer

O2

H2O

leadership in polymer science, the ACS Distinguished Service

When asked about the most surprising thing in his career,

Award, the Virginia Tech Alumni Research Award, and Virginia’s

McGrath replied, “the response to our work; I never would have

Outstanding Scientist. In May 2009, he will receive the ACS

expected it.”

Rubber Division Whitby Award.

His focus on fuel cells began in the late 1990s at the age of 65.

McGrath was elected to the prestigious National Academy of

“It was a ripe area for investigating the membranes that go into
fuel cell devices,” he said. “We realized that there were more
things you could do with fuel cell membranes than fuel cells,
so our research took off in several different directions rather
unexpectedly.”
These areas include water purification membranes and membranes for separating gases, such as air and natural gas. Each
of these ongoing studies is aimed at significantly improving
the current material being used, and offering a cleaner, more
environmentally friendly alternative.

Engineering in 1994. He has served, and continues to serve, on
numerous advisory boards in academia, industry, and government, including the National Materials Advisory Board of the
National Research Council.
“In addition to his extraordinary technical skills and legendary contributions to polymer science and engineering, Jim is
a humble, caring, outgoing, fun-loving person,” Freeman said.
“My life and my work have both been remarkably enriched by
Jim’s presence. My students and I have been forever and positively changed by