Location History:
- Millbury, MA (US) (1984 - 1990)
- Shrewsbury, MA (US) (1977 - 2012)
Company Filing History:
4 out of 425 
1 out of 180 
Years Active: 1977-2012
Title: The Innovations of Stephen D Hartline
Introduction
Stephen D Hartline is a notable inventor based in Millbury, MA (US), recognized for his contributions to the field of materials science. He holds a total of five patents, showcasing his innovative approach to ceramic and silicon nitride technologies. His work has significantly impacted various industrial applications, particularly in the automotive sector.
Latest Patents
One of Hartline's latest patents is a method for making a SiC based ceramic porous body. This invention relates to a process for fabricating a porous refractory ceramic product made from silicon carbide (SiC). The process involves heat treatment and sintering at high temperatures, starting from fine and larger-sized particles of SiC. A key feature of this process is the agglomeration of the finest SiC particles before they are combined with larger particles, resulting in a porous body suitable for applications such as particulate filters in automobiles.
Another significant patent is the silicon nitride vacuum furnace process. This improved method prepares silicon nitride through the direct nitridation of silicon metal. The multi-step process is more efficient than previous methods and produces silicon nitride with an oxygen content of less than 1% and a silicon metal content of less than 0.5%. The alpha phase content of the resulting silicon nitride is at least 85%, making it a valuable material for various applications.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Stephen D Hartline has worked with prominent companies such as Norton Company and Saint-Gobain Centre De Recherches et d'Etudes Europeen. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his expertise in materials science and contribute to groundbreaking innovations.
Collaborations
Hartline has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Craig A Willkens and Normand P Arsenault. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that has led to significant advancements in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Stephen D Hartline's innovative work in the development of SiC based ceramics and silicon nitride processes highlights his importance as an inventor. His contributions continue to influence the materials science industry and pave the way for future advancements.