Helping to develop smart textiles that can protect against biological or chemical attacks or pesticides or that can scrub the air of dangerous toxins in hospitals are examples of the kinds of critical advances that Cornell fiber scientist Kay Obendorf, M.S. '74, Ph.D. '76, have made in her career.

For her contributions in improving the understanding of the surface chemistry of fibers and their performance, with applications in the areas of pesticide protective clothing, detergency and functional textiles, Obendorf was awarded the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists' 2010 Olney Medal, the organization's award for lifetime achievements, May 19 during its international conference in Atlanta.

"It is very humbling to be recognized with this honor," said Obendorf, professor of fiber science and apparel design and senior associate dean for research and graduate education in the College of Human Ecology (CHE). "The research in our lab has long been focused on the application of rigorous analytical methods to better understand the chemistry, structure and performance of textiles. This information has been used by industry to create products that enhance the health and safety of individuals."

In her Olney Medal address, she highlighted her recent work in developing novel materials through the application of nanotechnology. She and collaborators have developed such new textiles as smart, breathable membranes engineered with a pore structure that is responsive to moisture in the environment. Such textiles can help minimize health risks and offer protection and comfort by shielding soldiers or emergency responders, for example, during biological or chemical terrorist attacks or protecting workers from hazardous substances in industrial or agricultural settings. Obendorf also described how self-decontaminating fibers containing metal oxides or antimicrobial agents are used in hospital, office and residence interiors to improve air quality by eliminating biological and chemical toxins such as fungal spores and other volatile organic compounds.

"We have designed fabrics to offer protection in common scenarios, such as treating your yard and garden with pesticides, to more toxic threats like chemical warfare," Obendorf said prior to her address.

Obendorf also is credited with defining the basic phenomena of aroma chemical adsorption within fiber structures, the level of adsorption and the changing locations and adsorption rates of different aroma chemicals. Using electron microscopy imaging, she developed a process to quantitatively measure such residues as stains, soils and fragrances on fabrics, information which enabled apparel and detergent manufacturers to develop higher quality consumer products.

"Kay is probably the top academic researcher in the country, and possibly the world, in the area of surfactants, detergency and the underlying chemistry of soils and their interactions with fibers," said Ann Lemley, chair of the Department of Fiber Science & Apparel Design. "Her ability to define the problem, choose and develop unique methods, do the research and produce sound and extremely useful results has been shown time and again in her work."

In addition to her scholarly contributions, Obendorf chaired her department for 10 years (1985-95) and oversaw the formation of the fiber science Ph.D. program. She has served in the CHE administration since 1997, leading the college's recent facility upgrades, including renovations to Martha Van Rensselaer Hall and construction of the new Human Ecology Building scheduled to open in 2011.

"Kay's research embodies the essence of human ecology -- where research on technology is focused on improving the human condition," said Alan Mathios, the Rebecca Q. and James C. Morgan Dean of the College of Human Ecology. "She has impacted the college in so many different ways. In fact, she deserves a lifetime achievement award in administration as well, as her vision and guidance have been instrumental in the development of our new facility that integrates science and design."

Ted Boscia is assistant director of communications for the College of Human Ecology.