Carl R Stephens

Title: **Carl R. Stephens: Innovator in Antifreeze Technology**

Introduction

Carl R. Stephens is a notable inventor based in Ashland, Kentucky. With five patents to his name, Stephens has made significant contributions to coolant formulations, particularly in the automotive sector. His inventions primarily focus on enhancing the performance and safety of antifreeze products used in heavy-duty applications.

Latest Patents

Among his most recent innovations are two notable patents related to acid-based antifreeze compositions. The first patent outlines a carboxylic acid-based antifreeze coolant formulation specifically designed for diesel engines. This formulation aims to inhibit and prevent erosion and corrosion of aluminum, as well as other metals, in automotive coolant systems. The invention further inhibits mineral scaling and can be packaged as an ethylene glycol-based additive for new engines or as a concentrated inhibition package for reinhibition of used coolant. The combination of ethylene or propylene glycol, monobasic carboxylic organic acid, azoles, low levels of molybdates, and silicate stabilizers provides a synergistic protective effect against cavitation corrosion of aluminum, effectively reducing the corrosion rate.

The second patent reflects similar advancements, reinforcing the emphasis on achieving effective protection at low concentrations and across varying pH ranges. Both patents signify a leap forward in antifreeze technology, showcasing Stephens’s commitment to improving automotive engine longevity and performance.

Career Highlights

Carl R. Stephens has held significant positions in companies such as Ashland, Inc. and Ashland Licensing and Intellectual Property LLC. His work in these organizations has been instrumental in the research and development of advanced coolant technologies. Through his career, he has manifested a strong focus on innovation in automotive applications, leading to the successful registration of multiple patents.

Collaborations

Throughout his inventive journey, Stephens has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including David E. Turcotte and Arnold L. Coffey, Jr. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has allowed for the birth of innovative solutions in antifreeze compositions, further solidifying the importance of teamwork in the field of invention.

Conclusion

Carl R. Stephens embodies the spirit of innovation within the automotive industry. His five patents, particularly in acid-based antifreeze formulations, have established him as a prominent figure in the research and development of automotive coolants. Through his collaborations and work in reputable companies, Stephens continues to influence and enhance the mechanisms that protect engines from corrosion and scaling, marking a significant impact on automotive engineering.