Fred F Lange

Title: The Innovative Journey of Inventor Fred F. Lange

Introduction

Fred F. Lange, an esteemed inventor based in Santa Barbara, California, has contributed significantly to the field of materials science through a remarkable portfolio of five patents. His innovative work primarily revolves around the production of macroporous ceramics, showcasing his commitment to advancing ceramic engineering.

Latest Patents

One of Lange's latest patents introduces a groundbreaking method for the production of macroporous ceramics. This technique utilizes droplets of an emulsion as templates, around which ceramic material is deposited via a sol-gel process. The subsequent steps of aging, drying, and calcination yield ceramics with pores ranging from 0.1 to several micrometers, left behind by the droplets. The unique deformability of these droplets helps prevent cracking and pulverization during processing, allowing for porosities exceeding 74%. By starting with a monodisperse emulsion, produced through a repeated fractionation procedure, Lange achieves uniform and controllable pore sizes. The self-assembly of these droplets into a colloidal crystal further enhances the ceramics, resulting in ordered arrays of pores. The advantages of this low-temperature sol-gel processing include a high degree of control and low costs, making it an appealing method for a wide range of applications.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Lange has demonstrated a relentless pursuit of innovation in ceramics and materials science. His affiliations with prestigious institutions such as the University of California and McMaster University have been pivotal in shaping his research and development endeavors. These experiences have enriched his understanding and application of ceramic manufacturing processes.

Collaborations

Lange's collaborative spirit is evident through his partnerships with notable colleagues such as Arnout Imhof and David J. Pine. These collaborations have likely fostered an environment of shared ideas and technological advancements, leading to the successful development of new methodologies in ceramics.

Conclusion

Fred F. Lange stands out as a prominent inventor whose work in macroporous ceramics has significant implications for various industries. His innovative approaches and collaborations underline the importance of teamwork in scientific progress. With a strong foundation of patents and a commitment to excellence, Lange continues to inspire the next generation of inventors and researchers in the field.