Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1988-1991
Title: **Innovator Insights: Irena Gawin - Pioneering Damage Tolerant Composites**
Introduction
Irena Gawin, a prominent inventor based in Sandy, Utah, has significantly contributed to the field of materials science through her innovative work in composites. With a total of four patents to her name, Gawin's inventions focus on enhancing the durability and functionality of composite materials.
Latest Patents
Gawin's latest patents include groundbreaking developments in damage tolerant composites. One such patent details composites comprising high strength filaments formed into bundles or tows of continuous fiber integrated within a tough, phase-separated, crosslinked epoxy resin matrix. This innovative composite contains infusible particles critical to its structure, with a median particle size between 10-75 microns, strategically residing between the plies of the composite. Furthermore, her patents outline the creation of prepregs for manufacturing these composites, detailing methods to enhance the properties of the epoxy resin compositions. Notably, the infusible particles are designed to segregate by size during the prepreg combination process, allowing for improved performance of the final product.
Career Highlights
Throughout her career, Irena Gawin has made substantial strides in composite engineering while working at Hercules Corporation. Her focus on integrating advanced materials has positioned her as a key player in the industry. The innovative approaches she has developed not only exemplify her expertise but also highlight her commitment to fostering advancements in composite technology.
Collaborations
Irena Gawin collaborates closely with her coworker, Brian J. Swetlin, to further explore the applications and enhancements of composite materials. Their partnership has led to the continuous evolution of products that meet the increasing demands of various industries, proving that collaboration can amplify innovation.
Conclusion
Irena Gawin's contributions to the field of damage tolerant composites are noteworthy. Her patents reflect a deep understanding of material science and an innovative spirit that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in composite technology. As she continues her work at Hercules Corporation, the impact of her inventions will undoubtedly resonate across industries, paving the way for future advancements in composite materials.