Richard Norris Knowles

Title: Richard Norris Knowles: Innovator in Fire Safety and Flame Retardants

Introduction

Richard Norris Knowles is a notable inventor based in Hockessin, Delaware, with a focus on fire safety technologies. He holds a total of 3 patents that contribute to advancements in chemical fire alarms and flame retardants. His innovative work has made significant impacts in the field of safety and materials science.

Latest Patents

One of Knowles' latest patents is a chemical fire alarm system designed to warn individuals of fire hazards. This system comprises a flammable substrate that has a non-vaporous organic compound bound to it. The compound, which has a molecular weight below 400, becomes a respiratory irritant when vaporized. Under normal conditions, the organic compound remains bound to the substrate, but it vaporizes when exposed to temperatures of at least 200 degrees Celsius. Another significant patent involves the preparation of water-soluble salts of antimony (V) glycol esters. These salts serve as effective flame retardants for materials such as textiles and polymeric resins. A typical example of such a salt is tri(ethylenedioxy)hydrogen antimony (V), sodium salt.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Richard Norris Knowles has worked with prominent companies, including E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company. His contributions to the field of fire safety and materials science have been recognized and utilized in various applications.

Collaborations

Knowles has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including his coworker Earl P. Moore, Jr. Their joint efforts have furthered the development of innovative safety technologies.

Conclusion

Richard Norris Knowles is a distinguished inventor whose work in fire safety and flame retardants has made a lasting impact. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing safety through innovative solutions.