Whitewater High’s Cayden Shaffer is one of the most promising young scientists in the world. Shaffer was a grand finalist at the Society for Science’s 2021 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
Shaffer, an 11th grade student at Whitewater, placed fourth for his project, “Recyling Plastic for 3d Printing.” He created a prototype process that would reduce the amount of waste plastic and waste pollution in 3d printing, making 3d printing more affordable and accessible.
In addition to winning $500, Shaffer will serve as an alternate awardee to attend a week-long summer camp at NC State’s College of Engineering.
ISEF is the world’s largest global high school science competition. More than 1,800 young scientists representing 49 states and 64 countries competed online, the first time in its more than 70-year history the competition took place virtually.
In total, more than $5 million was awarded to the finalists, who were evaluated on their projects’ creativity, innovation, and level of scientific inquiry.
That’s actually pretty impressive. 3D printing, FDM in particular, tends to be pretty wasteful for a variety of reasons. 3D printing hobbyists’ only answer to the problem is “use biodegradable polymers” which is still wasteful. Good work, Mr Shaffer!
Congratulations young Mr. Shaffer. I wish you the most promising career in science and engineering. You are a bright light for our entire county and state.
Congratulations, Cayden Shaffer. I am impressed and applaud you for your initiative, applying your awesome talent to such a huge world problem.