Leah J Langsdorf

Title: Leah J Langsdorf: Innovator in Urethane Adhesives and Catalysis

Introduction

Leah J Langsdorf is a prominent inventor based in West Chester, PA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of urethane adhesives and catalysts. With a total of three patents to her name, Langsdorf's work has had a lasting impact on the industry.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is for a urethane adhesive-laminated carpeting. This innovation involves laminated carpeting that consists of a secondary backing adhered to a greige good of yarn tufted into a primary backing. The carpets are prepared from polyurethane adhesives using single puddle processes, which allow for reduced use of polyurethane while maintaining excellent delamination strength. A reactive polyurethane system is preferred as the primary adhesive, with the secondary backing being skip-coated with a minor amount of a non-advancing skip coat.

Another notable patent is for a process for the rapid activation of double metal cyanide catalysts. This process involves heating a polyol starter or starter/catalyst mixture under vacuum to achieve improved stripping compared to conventional vacuum stripping methods. By coupling vacuum stripping with inert gas sparging or stripping in the presence of an organic solvent, the process produces a starter/catalyst mixture that activates rapidly in an epoxide polymerization process. This rapid activation enhances reliability during process start-ups and reduces cycle time, resulting in polyols with lower viscosity, lower polydispersity, and lower unsaturation for better polyurethanes.

Career Highlights

Langsdorf has worked with notable companies such as Arco Chemical Technology, L.P. and Bayer Antwerp, N.V. Her experience in these organizations has contributed to her expertise in the field of chemical engineering and materials science.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Langsdorf has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Gary L Allen and Bruce H Isaacs. These partnerships have fostered innovation and advancement in her research endeavors.

Conclusion

Leah J Langsdorf is a trailblazer in the field of urethane adhesives and catalysis, with her patents reflecting her innovative spirit and technical expertise. Her contributions continue to influence the industry and inspire future advancements in materials science.