As U.S. coal production declines due to the rise of natural gas and alternative energies, the question remains: What will happen to those communities of coal workers?

The answer may lie in a derivative of coal called “pitch,” which can be used to produce a carbon-fiber material utilized in items from skis to automobile and aircraft parts.

Engineers from the University of Utah conducted a $1.6 million project to research cost-effective, carbon-friendly methods of turning coal-derived pitch into carbon-fiber composite material, as well as analyze its market potential and whether it can help revitalize coal communities threatened by a decline in production.

Learn more about the project and its outcomes at our next Energy Briefing on Wednesday, September 5th, 12:00 PM at the DoubleTree Hotel. Eric Eddings, Associate Dean for Research, College of Engineering, University of Utah will be our presenter

As noted previously, The Chamber Energy Committee is offering a “season pass” for the energy briefing series with all four presentations, including this one available at a cost of $50, which is a savings of $10 off the per session price.  To purchase a fall energy briefing series pass, email Candace@gjchamber.org.