Location History:
- Niagara Falls, CA (1986)
- Hamilton, CA (1990)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1986-1990
Title: **The Innovations of Christopher E. Knapp: A Notable Inventor in Advanced Ceramics**
Introduction
Christopher E. Knapp is a prominent inventor based in Hamilton, CA, recognized for his significant contributions to the field of advanced ceramics. With a total of two patents under his name, he has demonstrated a commitment to innovation, particularly in the development of specialized ceramic bodies that have practical applications in various industries.
Latest Patents
One of Knapp's notable inventions is related to "Sintered Alumina-Zirconia Ceramic Bodies." This patent describes a method for creating useful ceramic bodies by mixing zirconia powder with seeded alumina gel, which is then dried and fired. The process is crucial as it converts alumina in the gel to microcrystalline alpha alumina. The resulting abrasive grits, consisting of 15 to 30 weight percent zirconia—where at least half is in the tetragonal crystal form—are particularly valuable for manufacturing grinding wheels used for snagging steel.
Another significant patent by Knapp is for "Partially Stabilized Zirconia Bodies." This innovation involves creating stabilized sintered zirconia bodies using zirconia powders formed from rapidly quenched co-fusions of zirconia with a stabilizing metal oxide. This process results in finer crystallinity and enhanced strength in the fired body, further showcasing Knapp's impact on materials science and engineering.
Career Highlights
Christopher E. Knapp is currently associated with Norton Company, a leader in manufacturing precision abrasive products. His role in Norton's ongoing research and development emphasizes the application of his patented technologies, contributing to the advancement of ceramic materials in various industrial applications.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Knapp has collaborated with talented coworkers, including Scott W. Pellow and Ronald W. Trischuk. These partnerships have not only facilitated the development of innovative materials but have also fostered a collaborative environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and expertise.
Conclusion
Christopher E. Knapp stands out as an inventor dedicated to pushing the boundaries of ceramic technology. His patents on sintered alumina-zirconia and partially stabilized zirconia bodies provide valuable insights into advanced material applications. With his continued work at Norton Company and fruitful collaborations with peers, Knapp's innovations are likely to have a lasting impact on the field of ceramics and beyond.