Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1977-1994
Title: **Herbert C. Kretschmar: Innovator in Malate Chemistry**
Introduction
Herbert C. Kretschmar, a notable inventor based in Cincinnati, OH, has made significant contributions to the field of chemical processes over his career. With a total of five patents to his name, Kretschmar is recognized for his innovations particularly related to malate salts and their applications. His work continues to influence processes in various industries, particularly within his role at The Procter & Gamble Company.
Latest Patents
Kretschmar's latest patents include groundbreaking methods for producing malate salts and related compounds. One prominent patent describes a process for making malate salts through the near-quantitative conversion of maleate to D,L-malate. This process involves heating an aqueous alkaline mixture of maleate with excess divalent cations, such as calcium or magnesium, in a reactor at elevated temperatures and autogenous pressures. The simplest raw materials for this innovative process are maleic anhydride and calcium hydroxide, resulting in an unusual granular solid form of the divalent metal malate salt.
Another significant patent showcases a controlled temperature process for creating 2,2'-oxodisuccinates. This method achieves high yields by reacting maleate and malate in aqueous alkaline media enriched with specific divalent and monovalent cations. The process incorporates both elevated temperature primary reactions and low-temperature maturation steps to maximize yields while minimizing byproduct formation, specifically fumarate.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Kretschmar has focused on developing efficient processes within chemical manufacturing. His contributions have not only optimized production methods but have also advanced the understanding of malate and oxodisuccinate chemistry. His work has set a foundation for further research and applications in various fields, including in the formulation of laundry detergent builders and other industrial products.
Collaborations
Herbert C. Kretschmar has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Herbert H. Reller and Daniel Stedman Connor, to enhance research and development efforts in their shared field. These collaborations have fostered a creative environment contributing to substantial innovations at The Procter & Gamble Company.
Conclusion
Herbert C. Kretschmar’s innovative spirit and dedication to improving chemical processes have resulted in valuable patents and collaborations that continue to impact industries today. His ongoing research in malate chemistry exemplifies the importance of innovation and teamwork in advancing technology and processes in the chemical manufacturing sector.