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Past Winner
2021 NSERC Synergy Awards for Innovation

Synergy Award for Innovation

Norman Zhou

Synergy Award for Innovation

Category: Two or More Companies

University of Waterloo
Huys Industries, ArcelorMittal Dofasco, International Zinc Association

Dr. Norman Zhou’s collaboration with Huys, Dofasco and the International Zinc Association has resulted in enhanced joining processes, novel welding consumables and equipment, and stronger lightweight materials that have allowed automotive manufacturers to meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and emission targets.

This successful partnership has resulted in the Centre for Advanced Materials Joining (CAMJ), an innovative hub for Canadian research and development which has grown into one of the largest research groups in materials joining in North America. Collaborating with over 55 local and international organizations, CAMJ has been a key player, influencing industry trends while representing Canada’s interests on the world stage.

Industry partners have benefited from the breakthroughs at CAMJ through the increased global adoption of their technologies in a very wide range of industries such as automotive, energy, aerospace, medical implants and electronic devices, while the Canadian economy has benefited from increased hiring and investment in local manufacturing because of these advancements.


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