Richard Burley

Title: **Richard Burley: Innovator in Cellulose Acetate Production**

Introduction

Richard Burley, hailing from Derby, GB, is a notable inventor with two patents to his name. His innovative contributions to the field of cellulose acetate production emphasize efficiency and quality, representing a significant advancement within the industry.

Latest Patents

Burley's most recent patents include a groundbreaking **Process for the Production of Cellulose Acetate from Wood Pulp**. This process uniquely utilizes wet wood pulp, eliminating the traditional step of converting it into dry pulp sheets. By employing a pin mill to mechanically separate the pulp and using a hot drying gas, deactivation of cellulose is prevented by meticulously controlling the drying gas exit temperature between 80°C and 95°C. This method allows for direct acetylation of the cellulose flock without requiring additional reactivation treatments beyond standard activation with acetic acid.

Another significant patent is his **Method for Acetylating Shredded Cellulosic Material**. In this process, cellulosic sheets are treated with water before being shredded and dried. The conditions within the machine are precisely controlled—maintaining an outlet temperature not exceeding 110°C and keeping the moisture content between 4-15% by weight. This careful management ensures that the cellulosic material remains active towards esterification, leading to the production of high-quality cellulose acetate flake.

Career Highlights

Richard Burley has made substantial contributions while working at Courtaulds plc, a company known for its advancements in textiles and chemical products. His role has positioned him as a key figure in the production processes of cellulose derivatives.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Burley has collaborated with esteemed coworkers, including Lucjan S. Slota and Patrick Roche. Their teamwork and expertise have allowed for the successful development and refinement of innovative techniques in cellulose acetate manufacturing.

Conclusion

Richard Burley's inventive methodologies in cellulose acetate production represent a significant leap forward in the field. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing industrial processes, ensuring that cellulose materials can be produced more efficiently and of higher quality. As he continues to innovate, Burley remains an influential figure in the realm of materials science.