DAVENPORT, IOWA (January 29, 2026) — Most Quad Cities manufacturers may not realize they have direct access to one of the region’s most advanced research and development assets, an Iowa State University–operated laboratory designed specifically to help businesses innovate, test new ideas, and solve complex production challenges. The Quad Cities Smart Design and Manufacturing (QCSDM) Lab is a major investment in the region, offering capabilities that can accelerate product development, enhance manufacturing processes, and support companies seeking to stay competitive in rapidly-evolving markets.
"Currently, the Quad Cities Smart Design and Manufacturing Lab is focused on research and development in advanced materials and manufacturing technology in support of the US military and US manufacturing companies,” said Dr Eric Faierson, Research Assistant Professor at Iowa State University and director of the Lab.
“We also look forward to exploring research opportunities with Quad Cities companies to integrate advanced manufacturing techniques in their product lines."
Additionally, Faierson said they are interested in expanding their R&D programs with new partnerships incorporating the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute (QCMI), Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) and Rock Island Arsenal,” said Faierson. The lab has in-house capabilities to support a broad range of manufacturing and materials challenges, including:
- Additive Manufacturing (3D printing);
- Additive Construction (3D printing of structures using concrete);
- Spark Plasma Sintering (uses direct current and pressure to densify materials; it is used for creating ceramics, metals and composite materials, capable of ultra-high temperature processing >2200 degrees Celsius);
- Robotics;
- Materials Synthesis (the deliberate creation of new or existing substances with tailored properties by combining elements and compounds);
- RF induction (using frequencies electromagnetic fields to transfer energy for contactless heating, curing, processing); and
- Microstructural analysis (study of materials internal features to better understand how microscopic structures influence properties).
Along with these capabilities, the QCSDM Lab benefits from reach-back support to the Iowa State University main campus in Ames, enabling additional faculty expertise, student engagement, and collaborative research.
“As a flagship research institution, Iowa State University and the College of Engineering are committed to supporting communities across the State of Iowa. In the Quad Cities, one way we do this is through strategic bi-state initiatives such as QCMI and RIADA, working on solutions that address key community needs,” said Sam Easterling, Dean of the College of Engineering at Iowa State University.
“Iowa State’s research facilities in the Quad Cities are an exciting way for us to more closely connect our research to problems faced by our partners in communities where the results matter. It also represents our commitment through the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute with University of Illinois and Western Illinois University to partner with the Quad Cities in not only solving complex problems involving advanced manufacturing and materials, but also ensuring those solutions are delivered locally and with quality.”
Funding support may also be available to help Iowa-based Quad Cities manufacturers access these QCSDM Lab capabilities. Shawn Creamer, Executive Director of RIADA and QCMI, noted that Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) program can assist with R&D projects ranging from new product exploration to testing and process improvement. Illinois-based Quad Cities manufacturers can access funding support through University of Illinois system R&D capabilities by leveraging the Illinois Innovation Voucher (IIV) Program. The IIV program will begin accepting applications starting February 2, 2026.
Manufacturers interested in pursuing R&D projects with QCMI universities — Iowa State University, University of Illinois, and Western Illinois University — are encouraged to reach out to the respective units. QCMI stands by to assist QC manufacturers in coordinating with university staff.
The QCSDM Lab already has several active projects underway. “Two of our most prominent projects we are currently working on include Additive Construction (3D concrete printing) for expeditionary environments, and the development of advanced materials for ballistic protection,” said Faierson.
Background
RIADA and QCMI formed a partnership last year to strengthen the economic impact of advanced manufacturing in the Quad Cities. By combining resources and strategy this collaboration also supports workforce development and enhances the strategic role of the Rock Island Arsenal within the national industrial base.
QCMI works in partnership with Iowa State University, University of Illinois and Western Illinois University to advance research and workforce training in advanced manufacturing and materials for both commercial and military applications, helping position the Quad Cities as a regional and national leader in next-generation manufacturing.
