Ernie Robert Silva

Title: Ernie Robert Silva: Inventor in Composite Materials and Surface Treatment.

Introduction

Ernie Robert Silva is an inventor associated with Duarte, California, and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation. His patent work includes methods for forming composite structures and treating metal surfaces for use in composite manufacturing. Silva is credited with 4 patents.

Latest Patents

**Apparatus and Method for Forming a Composite Structure.** This patent describes a process for preparing a tool surface before forming a composite structure on it. The method applies primer to the tool, adds a coating over the primer, cures both layers, and then forms the composite structure on the prepared tool. The primer may be powdered, and the coating may be a powdered fluorinated organic compound.

**Acid Impervious Coated Metal Substrate Surface and Method of Production.** This patent presents a method for making a metal surface substantially resistant to acid. It involves exposing the surface to a treatment field, depositing polymer particles and a curable powder adhesive, and curing the coating so the particles adhere as a film. The resulting coated steel substrate can serve as a fixture for curing resin-impregnated composite materials, helping prevent iron from leaching into the parts during autoclave processing.

Career Highlights

Silva’s described inventions address practical challenges in composite fabrication. His work includes preparing tool surfaces for composite forming and developing acid-resistant metal fixtures that can support high-temperature curing processes.

Collaborations

Silva’s listed coworkers include Jerry Wynn Brimer and James A. Kirk. His company affiliation is Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation.

Conclusion

Ernie Robert Silva’s patent work focuses on surface treatments and tooling methods that support reliable composite manufacturing.