Akron Polymer Systems (APS) is a materials development firm founded by Dr. Frank W. Harris, UA distinguished professor emeritus of polymer science, and Dr. Stephen Z. D. Cheng, dean of the UA College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. Dr. Harris is president and CEO and Dr. Cheng is chief technical advisor for the company. APS focuses on innovating new and novel materials for the development of next generation information displays, alternative energy sources, and biomedical devices.   

• Optical Films
• Fuel Cells
• Flexible Displays and Photovoltaic Cells
• Aerospace Materials
• Biomedical Materials

Akron Polymer Systems has an agreement with the City of Akron to lease roughly .88 acres of land and the building at 62 North Summit Street to construct a new office/lab/and production facility.

The company will redevelop the existing building at 62 North Summit and construct a 9,700 square foot addition, at an estimated cost of $1.2 million. The City will demolish 44 North Summit in order to provide two dozen parking spaces for the expanded facility.

Bob Bowman, deputy mayor for economic development said, "They were outgrowing their space on Gilchrist Road and needed about 15,000 square feet for offices, labs and production. We had what they needed and they have what we need; it’s a good fit."

Akron Polymer Systems was approached by communities in South Carolina and within Ohio about relocating from its current Gilchrist Road location. The company determined that staying in Akron to build upon its relationship with UA and to grow at within the Biomedical Corridor was best for its future.

The City of Akron purchased the property and buildings at 44-62 North Summit Street in 2006 for land banking purposes at a cost of $675,000. There are currently existing commercial buildings located at 44 and 62 North Summit Street; 56 North Summit Street is currently a vacant parcel used for parking.