This year marks the 70th anniversary of Teflon®, the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer that became a household name and component of products ranging from cookware to protective clothing to aerospace. To commemorate the anniversary, DuPont™ Fluoropolymer Solutions, Wilmington, Del., called for entries to the 2008 Plunkett Awards for Innovation and Sustainability in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. The deadline for entries is January 15, 2009.

DuPont scientist Dr. Roy Plunkett, for whom the awards are named, discovered Teflon in 1938. The awards recognize processors or users of Teflon in fabricated products, and entries will be judged on product innovation, use and sustainability. DuPont also encourages submissions that increase safety, quality and reliability or reduce cost. Products must have been in commercial service no more than five years prior to entry. First-, second- and third-place recognition and prizes will be decided in each region. For information, visit http://dupont.com/plunkett.