Niels Holten-Andersen

Title: Niels Holten-Andersen: Innovator in Programmable Materials

Introduction

Niels Holten-Andersen is a prominent inventor based in Quincy, MA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of materials with programmable properties. With a total of 5 patents, his work has the potential to revolutionize various applications, especially in biomedical and cosmetic industries.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents focuses on materials with programmable properties controlled by light. This patent discloses methods, compositions, reagents, systems, and kits to prepare materials with viscoelastic properties that respond to light irradiation. Various embodiments demonstrate that bio-inspired histidine:transition metal ion complexes allow precise and tunable control over the viscoelastic properties of polymer networks containing these types of crosslinks, both pre and post-irradiation. These innovative materials could significantly aid biomedical materials scientists in developing materials with specific stress-relaxing or energy-dissipating properties.

Another notable patent involves responsive coatings for hair fibers. This patent describes cosmetic compositions, systems, and methods for conferring responsive durable shaping of keratinous fibers. It employs at least one shape memory polymer that includes a four-armed branched polyethylene glycol (PEG) based polymer, functionalized with one or more metal-coordination active groups. The shape memory polymer forms a crosslinked network coating on substrates, such as hair. Hair coated with this polymer and treated with an oxidizing agent can be shaped, locked into shape, and reprogrammed by modulating pH. The coated hair retains durable shaping properties through at least one shampoo treatment, providing a revolutionary approach to styling hair.

Career Highlights

Niels has worked with prestigious organizations, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and L'Oréal. His experience in these institutions has allowed him to refine his expertise in materials science and innovation.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Niels has collaborated with notable individuals such as Scott Charles Grindy and Jeremiah Allen Johnson. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of his research and the successful development of his patented technologies.

Conclusion

Niels Holten-Andersen is a remarkable inventor whose work in programmable materials is paving the way for future innovations in various fields. His contributions to materials science, particularly in biomedical and cosmetic applications, highlight the importance of his research