Dr. Michael R. Van De Mark is Associate Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at Missouri S&T. He was previously tthe Missouri University of Science and Technology Coatings Institute director and an associate professor of chemistry specializing in polymer, coatings and organic synthesis research. His areas of interest include flash-rust inhibition, water-reducible resin synthesis and characterization, phthalocyanine pigment research, low VOC and waterborne formulation, and organic photo and electro-chemistry.

Current research interests involve synthetic and molecular modeling studies on new phthalocyanine pigment systems. These may exhibit better catalytic activity as well as unique conductivity properties. He is also involved in continuous efforts to elucidate the mechanisms involved if "Flash Rusting" when water borne products such as latex paint is applied to ferrous substrates. Use of spectrophotometric analysis, time laps photography, conductivity measurements and AA are giving us clues as to the mechanism and ways to prevent the corrosion process. In addition, he is also pursuing the synthesis of water reducible 3-5 nanometer diameter polymer particles and their potential uses.

Dr. Van De Mark earned his Ph.D. from Texas A&M University, followed by a two-year postdoctoral at the University of Minnesota. His career achievements include developing several new protocols for industry including four patents.