Dr. George Butler

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This is not to say that research in polymers was only happening within the Butler and Hogen Esch research laboratories, for that is not the case. Many others were involved to greater or lesser extents, including Charles Reed in the early years. Professor Reed was among the first in the world to investigate the use of polymer membranes for reverse osmosis purification of salt water to create pure drinking water.

Nevertheless, the origin of what is known today as the George and Josephine Butler Polymer Research Laboratory undoubtedly can be attributed to the work of Butler and Hogen-Esch. In 1984 a decision was made to expand further by the addition of Ken Wagener to the faculty; Randy Duran came in 1989, John Reynolds in 1992.

The George & Josephine Butler Research Laboratory became formally recognized as a separate entity in 1995 when it was dedicated as part of the renovation of Leigh Hall, one of the Department’s oldest Buildings. The Butler Laboratory is found on the third floor of this building, and at present is occupied by Stephen Miller's, John Reynolds', and Ken Wagener's research groups.