ASTM International presented its 2023 Charles B. Dudley Medal to Sarah Smith and Walter Stewart, for their work on an oxygen systems handbook used extensively within NASA.

Established in 1925 by ASTM International in commemoration of the Society's first President, Charles B. Dudley, the award is given to stimulate research leading to standardization, extend knowledge of the specific interests of ASTM, and recognize meritorious contributions to the publications of the Society.

Smith and Stewart’s recognized work is Safe Use of Oxygen and Oxygen Systems: Handbook for Design, Operation and Maintenance: 2^nd Edition. The handbook is cited for its impact within NASA, representing a significant revision to the previous version.

Smith was previously honored by ASTM with the Award of Merit (2006) for her work on materials in oxygen-enriched atmospheres. She now serves as vice president of the Raw Milk Institute, with a focus on educating farmers, lawmakers, and the public on raw milk and its production.

Smith earned her mechanical engineering degree in aerospace engineering from New Mexico State University (2000).

Stewart retired from Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in 1993 and consulted with NASA at the White Sands Test Facility revising various safety manuals until 2015. His career focus is cryogenic systems and research, and he’s a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the Cryogenic Engineering Conference.

Stewart received his bachelor (1961) and master of science (1970) degrees in mechanical engineering from New Mexico State University.

Media Inquiries: Gavin O’Reilly, tel +1.610.832.9618; goreilly@astm.org

Release #11899

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