Pamela M Norris

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Pamela M. Norris

Introduction

Pamela M. Norris is a distinguished inventor based in Charlottesville, VA. She has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of advanced thermal management systems and porous metal oxide materials. With a total of 3 patents, her work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches and practical applications.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is focused on silica materials and methods of making them. This patent discloses methods for the preparation of porous metal oxide materials, including metal oxide xerogels and aerogels. The process involves reacting a metal alkoxide with water in the presence of a catalyst system to form a partially hydrolyzed sol. This sol is then treated with a base catalyst and a non-aqueous solvent to create a precursor gel, which is subsequently dried to yield the final porous metal oxide material. The catalyst system utilized in this method comprises a combination of a weak acid and a strong acid.

Another notable patent by Norris is a multifunctional thermal management system and related method. This system is designed to provide a thin structure that combines thermal management and stress-supporting properties. The advantages of this system include its ability to spread, store, and dissipate intense thermal fluxes while also supporting high structural loads. This innovative approach can be applied in various scenarios, such as mitigating thermal buckling in ship deck plates and providing thermal regulation for under-floor heating in buildings or de-icing surfaces like roads and bridges.

Career Highlights

Pamela M. Norris has had a notable career, working with esteemed institutions such as the University of Virginia and Pacific Sierra Research. Her expertise in materials science and engineering has allowed her to contribute to various research projects and innovations.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Norris has collaborated with several professionals, including Jack S. Brenizer and Charles E. Daitch. These collaborations have further enriched her work and expanded the impact of her inventions.

Conclusion

Pamela M. Norris is a remarkable inventor whose work in materials science has led to significant advancements in thermal management and porous materials. Her innovative patents reflect her dedication to improving technology and addressing practical challenges in various applications.