Paul L Westgate

Title: Paul L. Westgate: Innovator in Cellulosic Material Treatment

Introduction

Paul L. Westgate is an accomplished inventor based in Columbia, MD, who has made significant contributions to the field of cellulosic material processing. With a portfolio of two patents, Westgate's work focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of treatments for cellulosic materials.

Latest Patents

One of Westgate's notable patents is titled "Processes for Treating Cellulosic Material". This innovative process involves pretreating cellulosic materials in liquid water by heating them at temperatures at or above their glass transition temperature, without exceeding 220°C. By maintaining the pH within a specific range, this process effectively avoids substantial autohydrolysis, minimizing chemical alterations while enhancing physical changes that increase susceptibility to hydrolysis in the presence of cellulase.

Another significant patent by Westgate is the "Method for Derivatization of Cellulosic Stationary Phase". This patent describes a modified solid sorbent material made from cellulose that undergoes hydrolysis with cellulase enzymes. This treatment enhances protein adsorption capacity, which is crucial for methods of purifying proteins by passing a liquid medium containing the protein over the modified sorbent material.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Paul L. Westgate has been associated with notable research institutions, including the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Transfer and Purdue Research Foundation. His work has significantly impacted the field of bioprocessing, particularly in the manipulation and utilization of cellulosic materials.

Collaborations

Westgate has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Michael Ralph Ladisch and Karen L. Kohlman. This teamwork has fostered advancements in innovating processes that enhance the application of cellulosic materials in various industries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paul L. Westgate's innovations in the treatment of cellulosic materials underscore his vital role as an inventor in the realm of biotechnology. His patents not only reveal his expertise but also pave the way for further developments in sustainable practices related to the use of cellulose. With a strong foundation in research and collaboration, Westgate continues to contribute to the evolution of cellulosic processing technologies.