Douglas Howard Piltingsrud

Title: Douglas Howard Piltingsrud: Innovator in Self-Cleaning Colloidal Slurry Technology

Introduction

Douglas Howard Piltingsrud is a notable inventor based in Eyota, MN (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of self-cleaning colloidal slurry compositions. With a total of 16 patents to his name, Piltingsrud's work has advanced the technology used in data storage devices.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is focused on a self-cleaning colloidal slurry composition and process for finishing the surface of various substrates, including glass, ceramic, and metal. This innovative slurry comprises a carrying fluid, colloidal particles, etchant, and a surfactant that forms a steric hindrance barrier. This barrier effectively prevents contaminants from bonding to the substrate surface. The application of the slurry, combined with mechanical rubbing, allows for a superfinish of glass disk substrates to a surface roughness of less than 2 nanometers, ensuring minimal surface contamination as verified by atomic force microscopy (AFM) after cleaning.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Piltingsrud has worked with prominent companies such as IBM and Hitachi Global Storage Technologies. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing advanced materials and processes.

Collaborations

Some of his notable coworkers include James Aloysius Hagan and Steven F. Starcke. Their collaboration has likely played a role in the successful development of innovative technologies in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Douglas Howard Piltingsrud's contributions to the field of materials science, particularly through his self-cleaning colloidal slurry technology, have made a significant impact on the industry. His innovative patents and collaborations with leading companies highlight his role as a key inventor in advancing technology for data storage devices.