Mark L. Lavach, manager, analytical and systems research, Arkema, Inc., King of Prussia, Pa., has been named chairman of ASTM International Committee D20 on Plastics.

Formed in 1937, D20 has over 1,120 members representing 47 countries, and includes 20 technical subcommittees that oversee 477 standards related to plastics, their raw materials, components, and finished products. Lavach has been a member of ASTM since 1994.

Lavach has been with Arkema, Inc. since its creation in 2006, having previously served as a manager at Atofina and a scientist with Elf Atochem, both legacy companies of the current Arkema, Inc. Lavach holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Fairleigh Dickinson University, a master’s degree in engineering science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and a graduate certificate in technology management from the California Institute of Technology.

Lavach has previously been the recipient of the Award of Appreciation, two Awards of Recognition, the Outstanding Achievement Award, the Award of Excellence and the Award of Merit, all for his work on D20. He is a member of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, Society of Plastics Engineers, American Chemical Society, Vinyl Siding Institute, and the American Lab Managers Association.

Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org

Release #10060