Brian D Merkle

Title: Brian D Merkle: Innovator in Thin Film Coating Technology

Introduction

Brian D Merkle is a notable inventor based in Ames, Iowa. He has made significant contributions to the field of thin film coating technology. His innovative approach utilizes an inductively coupled plasma to create ultrapure coatings, showcasing his expertise in material science.

Latest Patents

Brian D Merkle holds a patent for a "Thin film coating process using an inductively coupled plasma." This process involves applying thin coatings of normally solid materials to target substrates. The method vaporizes particles of the coating material through plasma heating, allowing them to pass through an orifice into a vacuum zone. In this zone, the particles are accelerated to a velocity greater than Mach 1. The resulting shock wave is intercepted by a skimmer cone, which provides a second orifice. The particles then enter a second vacuum zone, where they impinge on the target to form the coating. This innovative technique enables the formation of ultrapure coatings.

Career Highlights

Brian D Merkle is associated with the Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc. His work has been instrumental in advancing thin film coating processes. He has demonstrated a commitment to research and innovation throughout his career.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Brian has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard N Kniseley and Frederick A Schmidt. These collaborations have contributed to the development of advanced coating technologies.

Conclusion

Brian D Merkle's contributions to thin film coating technology highlight his innovative spirit and dedication to research. His patented process represents a significant advancement in the field, paving the way for future developments in material science.