Kurt P Scharnhorst

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Kurt P. Scharnhorst

Introduction: Kurt P. Scharnhorst is a notable inventor based in Columbia, MD, known for his significant contributions to the field of superconductivity and viscoelastic materials. With a portfolio that includes five patents, Scharnhorst’s inventions demonstrate his expertise and creativity, particularly in the applications of advanced materials.

Latest Patents: One of Scharnhorst's prominent inventions is titled "Method for the selecting superconducting powders." This invention details a process for the beneficiation of powdered materials that possess superconducting characteristics. The method involves the introduction of superconducting material into a vertical magnetic field, utilizing the Meissner Effect to levitate particles based on their superconducting properties. More superconducting particles achieve higher elevations, while non-superconducting particles remain unaffected by the magnetic field. This innovative approach allows for the selective harvesting of levitated particles based on their desired states.

Another significant patent is the "Method to determine the shear absorption of a rubberlike material." This invention focuses on quantifying the shear absorption of viscoelastic materials by directing acoustical energy at the material and analyzing the backscattered signals created by compressional waves. The process converts these signals into a resonance amplitude versus frequency domain, allowing for the determination of shear absorption through the frequency and half-width of the resonance peaks.

Career Highlights: Scharnhorst has made impactful contributions while working for the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy. His work in the field of materials science has led to advancements that are valuable for both military and civilian applications.

Collaborations: During his career, Scharnhorst has collaborated with notable peers, including Richard F. Bis and Jack R. Dixon. Their combined expertise has fostered an environment of innovation, further enhancing the contributions made to the field of materials science.

Conclusion: Kurt P. Scharnhorst stands out as a prolific inventor whose work in superconductivity and viscoelastic materials continues to influence advancements in technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of material properties and innovative solutions, reinforcing his position as a key contributor in his field.