Frederick E Ward, Deceased

Title: Frederick E Ward: Innovator in Conductive Polymers

Introduction

Frederick E Ward was a notable inventor whose contributions to the field of conductive polymers have left a lasting impact. Based in Elkhart, IN, he was known for his innovative approach to creating electrically conducting materials that have practical applications in diagnostic devices.

Latest Patents

Ward held a patent for "Substituted bithiophenes and dithienylpyrroles." This invention describes the production of electrically conducting homo- and/or copolymers and/or tripolymers from novel monomers, such as a 3-substituted 2,5-di(2-thienyl)pyrrole. The polymers exhibit unexpectedly high stability and conductivities, and they can be functionalized with various components, such as enzymes or ion-specific binding sites, without adversely affecting their conductivity. This functionalized conducting polymer can be utilized in diagnostic devices to determine the presence and concentration of specific analytes in liquid mediums, such as glucose.

Career Highlights

Ward's career was marked by his work at Miles Inc., where he developed his groundbreaking patent. His innovative research contributed significantly to the understanding and application of conductive polymers in various fields.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Ward collaborated with notable colleagues, including James P Albarella and J Oakey Noell. These collaborations helped to enhance the research and development of conductive materials.

Conclusion

Frederick E Ward's contributions to the field of conductive polymers have paved the way for advancements in diagnostic technology. His innovative spirit and dedication to research continue to inspire future generations of inventors.