Thomas M Leonard

Title: **Innovations by Thomas M. Leonard: A Pioneer in Polyurethane Joint Sealant Technology**

Introduction

Thomas M. Leonard, an inventor based in Lakewood, OH, has made significant contributions to the field of construction materials, particularly in the development of advanced polyurethane joint sealing compositions. With a total of two patents to his name, Leonard's innovations offer remarkable improvements in sealing technologies, enhancing structural integrity and durability in modern building applications.

Latest Patents

Leonard's latest patents focus on polyurethane joint sealing for building structures. These innovations utilize fibrillated polyolefins of high surface area combined with stabilizing cofillers, such as titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, and carbon black. This combination forms a sealant that prevents issues like sweat out and exudation of liquid while ensuring an acceptable surface quality after curing. By incorporating 2 to 8 percent by weight of fibrillated polyolefin with macrofibrils ranging from 1 to 10 microns, alongside 8 to 30 percent of stabilizing cofillers, Leonard has successfully created joint sealants with exceptional properties. Notably, these new sealants can achieve Boeing sag values of 0.1 and below, making them ideal for applications in extremely wide joints and vertical spaces that experience significant cyclical movement prevalent in contemporary construction.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Leonard has been associated with Rpm, Inc., where he further honed his expertise in materials science and engineering. His work at Rpm, Inc. has laid a strong foundation for his innovative approaches and patents, particularly in elastomeric materials used for sealing applications in the construction industry.

Collaborations

In his journey of innovation, Leonard has collaborated with notable professionals, including Robert M. Evans. This partnership has allowed for the fusion of ideas and expertise, leading to breakthroughs in polyurethane technologies that benefit the construction sector.

Conclusion

Thomas M. Leonard exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the field of building materials through his patent achievements and collaborations. His advancements in polyurethane joint sealants not only improve the efficacy of construction methods but also pave the way for future developments in sealing technologies. As the construction industry continues to evolve, Leonard's contributions will likely play a pivotal role in enhancing structural performance and sustainability.