Arthur E Kennedy

Title: **Innovations of Arthur E. Kennedy: A Pioneer in Gypsum Board Technology**

Introduction

Arthur E. Kennedy, an inventive mind from North Tonawanda, NY, has made significant contributions to the building materials industry with his innovative approaches to gypsum wallboard technology. With a total of five patents to his name, Kennedy’s work showcases his commitment to enhancing the efficiency and aesthetic appeal of gypsum board products.

Latest Patents

Kennedy's latest patents focus on innovative techniques for manufacturing predecorated gypsum board. The first patent, titled "Method of making predecorated gypsum board face paper," outlines a unique process where a protective base coat is applied to the face paper using rotogravure printing. This process features minute openings closely spaced throughout the coating, achieved by applying reasonably uniformly sized tiny dots with a density of 1,000 to 100,000 dots per square inch. Following this, a decorative coat is layered over the base coat, resulting in a highly functional and visually appealing product.

The second patent, "Predecorated gypsum board," details a similar process for the manufacturing of predecorated gypsum wallboard. It emphasizes the application of the coated surface of the paper on the outer face of the gypsum wallboard which, once hardened, is dried by heating to remove water from the core through the porous coated paper. This innovative approach not only enhances the physical properties of the gypsum board but also provides a decorative finish that is ready for installation.

Career Highlights

Arthur E. Kennedy currently contributes his expertise as part of the National Gypsum Company. His work there has paved the way for advancements in gypsum wallboard technology, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation in construction materials. Kennedy's patents highlight significant advancements in the manufacturing processes that improve the durability and aesthetic quality of gypsum products.

Collaborations

Kennedy has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Donald R. Kole and George J. Bean, Jr. These partnerships within the National Gypsum Company have fostered an environment of innovation, allowing for the exchange of ideas and driving the development of new technologies in the industry. Their collective expertise contributes to the ongoing evolution of gypsum wallboard manufacturing processes.

Conclusion

Arthur E. Kennedy exemplifies the spirit of innovation within the construction materials field. His patented methods for producing predecorated gypsum board not only elevate the functional properties of wallboard but also enhance the aesthetic aspects of construction projects. With his contributions, Kennedy remains a pivotal figure in the ongoing advancement of building materials technology.