Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1985
Title: Douglas S. Lewing: Innovator in Carbon Fiber Technology
Introduction
Douglas S. Lewing is a notable inventor based in New York, NY (US), recognized for his contributions to the field of carbon fiber technology. He has developed a unique method for producing carbonized fibrous materials that exhibit enhanced properties, making significant strides in material science.
Latest Patents
Lewing holds a patent for a "Method of producing carbon fiber and product thereof." This innovative process focuses on the formation of improved carbonized fibrous materials with increased modulus of elasticity and strength, while also reducing the diameter of the fibers. The precursor material used in this process is acrylonitrile, which is typically copolymerized with a minor amount of an acrylic monomer, such as methyl acrylate. The method involves drawing the polymer fiber during oxidation at elevated temperatures in the presence of a carboxylic acid or its anhydride, which serves as a plasticizer. This technique allows for a significant increase in fiber plasticity and tensile strength, achieving improvements of up to 300% during oxidation.
Career Highlights
Douglas S. Lewing has made a substantial impact in the field of materials engineering through his work at Fiber Materials, Inc. His innovative approach to carbon fiber production has positioned him as a key figure in advancing the capabilities of carbon fibers in various applications.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Lewing has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Roger T. Pepper and Daniel C. Nelson. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the sharing of ideas in the field of materials science.
Conclusion
Douglas S. Lewing's contributions to carbon fiber technology exemplify the importance of innovation in material science. His patented methods have the potential to revolutionize the production of carbon fibers, leading to stronger and more versatile materials for various applications.