Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2000-2002
Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Catalina E. Laplaza**
Introduction
Catalina E. Laplaza is a distinguished inventor based in Somerville, MA, known for her significant contributions to the field of chemistry. With three patents to her name, she has focused on innovative methods for ammonia generation and the manipulation of nitrogen compounds, showcasing her expertise in transition metal complexes.
Latest Patents
One of her latest patents describes a method for the generation of ammonia from dinitrogen. This method involves reacting a three-coordinate, low oxidation state transition metal complex with dinitrogen under atmospheric pressures to create a metal-nitrido complex. As the oxidation state of the metal complex increases, the metal of the nitrido complex can be reduced in the presence of a hydrogen source to produce ammonia (NH₃). Furthermore, her invention presents a novel metal complex capable of cleaving small molecules, featuring metals such as molybdenum, titanium, vanadium, niobium, tungsten, uranium, or chromium. The chemical formula provided for this complex includes M(NR₁R₂)₃, where M represents a transition metal, and R₁ and R₂ are selected from among tertiary alkyls, phenyls, or substituted phenyls. This development allows for the effective cleavage of nitrogen-nitrogen triple bonds.
Career Highlights
Catalina has made notable strides in her career, particularly in her role at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she leverages her research to advance the field of chemical engineering. Her innovative approaches and findings are essential in addressing global challenges related to nitrogen utilization and ammonia synthesis.
Collaborations
In her research endeavors, Catalina collaborates with Christopher Colin Cummins, enhancing her work through shared insights and joint projects. This collaboration has proven vital in the exploration of new chemical reactions and the development of innovative technologies.
Conclusion
Catalina E. Laplaza exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the scientific community. Her groundbreaking patents and collaborative efforts at MIT contribute significantly to advancements in chemistry and sustainable practices. As she continues to explore the complexities of transition metals and their applications, her work remains crucial to the future of ammonia production and nitrogen management.