In an era defined by fast-paced technological transformation and global challenges, innovation has evolved from being a competitive edge to an absolute necessity. Delaware — a state renowned for its history of industrial creativity — is already taking decisive steps to lead the way in addressing the challenges of the future.
At the center of this progress lies the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus, home to the Chemours Discovery Hub (CDH), a cutting-edge research and development facility. Housing more than 130 laboratories and a team of over 300 scientists, engineers, and researchers, the CDH stands as a symbol of American ingenuity. It’s a place where scientific discovery meets meaningful purpose — where pioneering chemistries and technologies are shaping solutions for tomorrow’s world.
One striking example is the development of advanced liquid cooling systems for data centers and other high-demand applications. As artificial intelligence continues to drive skyrocketing computing needs, traditional air-cooling methods are hitting their limits. Chemours’ Opteon™ two-phase liquid cooling technology offers a transformative alternative — reducing energy usage by up to 90%, minimizing water consumption nearly to zero, and decreasing data center space requirements by as much as 60%. This innovation is revolutionizing the backbone of our digital infrastructure.
However, groundbreaking innovation thrives only when supported by an enabling regulatory environment. Currently, the U.S. regulatory system often slows progress, with lengthy approval processes for new products and chemistries that can take years to complete. These delays risk shifting American innovation to other countries with faster approval pathways, weakening the nation’s global competitiveness and delaying the adoption of safer, more sustainable technologies at home.
To safeguard America’s leadership in science and technology, regulatory modernization is essential. Reforms should focus on streamlining programs such as the Toxic Substances Control Act, harmonizing federal and state permitting procedures, and ensuring regulators are informed about the real-world applications and benefits of emerging chemistries. Without these updates, innovations born in the U.S. may flourish elsewhere instead.
Looking ahead, the message is unmistakable: innovation drives economic growth, sustainability, and national resilience — but it requires the right environment to thrive. Delaware stands out as a leader in this mission. With its robust academic institutions, dynamic business ecosystem, and strong tradition of collaboration between the public and private sectors, the First State exemplifies how innovation and regulation can advance together. The Chemours Discovery Hub serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when science, industry, and policy work in harmony.
At the center of this progress lies the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus, home to the Chemours Discovery Hub (CDH), a cutting-edge research and development facility. Housing more than 130 laboratories and a team of over 300 scientists, engineers, and researchers, the CDH stands as a symbol of American ingenuity. It’s a place where scientific discovery meets meaningful purpose — where pioneering chemistries and technologies are shaping solutions for tomorrow’s world.
One striking example is the development of advanced liquid cooling systems for data centers and other high-demand applications. As artificial intelligence continues to drive skyrocketing computing needs, traditional air-cooling methods are hitting their limits. Chemours’ Opteon™ two-phase liquid cooling technology offers a transformative alternative — reducing energy usage by up to 90%, minimizing water consumption nearly to zero, and decreasing data center space requirements by as much as 60%. This innovation is revolutionizing the backbone of our digital infrastructure.
However, groundbreaking innovation thrives only when supported by an enabling regulatory environment. Currently, the U.S. regulatory system often slows progress, with lengthy approval processes for new products and chemistries that can take years to complete. These delays risk shifting American innovation to other countries with faster approval pathways, weakening the nation’s global competitiveness and delaying the adoption of safer, more sustainable technologies at home.
To safeguard America’s leadership in science and technology, regulatory modernization is essential. Reforms should focus on streamlining programs such as the Toxic Substances Control Act, harmonizing federal and state permitting procedures, and ensuring regulators are informed about the real-world applications and benefits of emerging chemistries. Without these updates, innovations born in the U.S. may flourish elsewhere instead.
Looking ahead, the message is unmistakable: innovation drives economic growth, sustainability, and national resilience — but it requires the right environment to thrive. Delaware stands out as a leader in this mission. With its robust academic institutions, dynamic business ecosystem, and strong tradition of collaboration between the public and private sectors, the First State exemplifies how innovation and regulation can advance together. The Chemours Discovery Hub serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when science, industry, and policy work in harmony.