William G Reeves

Title: Innovations by William G. Reeves: Pioneering Conductive and Water-Repellent Nonwoven Materials

Introduction: William G. Reeves, an accomplished inventor based in Woodstock, GA, has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, with a focus on developing innovative nonwoven fabrics. He holds three patents that showcase his expertise in creating materials with specific conductive and repellent properties.

Latest Patents: Reeves' latest patents include a method for making conductive, water, and alcohol-repellent nonwoven fabrics. This invention improves upon existing treatments, compositions, and methodologies for obtaining a naturally hydrophobic nonwoven web that also exhibits desired electrical conductivity. The process involves treating the web with compounds rich in oxygen or nitrogen, such as ethers, acids, or alcohols, particularly using polymers like polyethers and polyacids. A preferred embodiment for achieving alcohol repellency involves contacting the treated web under precise pH conditions with a fluorocarbon-containing composition. The result is a conductive material that meets anti-static requirements for surgical applications, while also maintaining desirable properties of water and alcohol repellency. These materials prove invaluable for surgical gowns, drapes, and other uses where conductivity and water repellency are critical.

Additionally, Reeves has developed a surface treatment method to inhibit thermal oxidative degradation of polypropylene webs. This process involves rinsing the polypropylene in an aqueous solution containing dilaurylthiodipropionate (DLTOP) or distearylthiodipropionate (DSTDP) at a concentration of 5 ppm, maintained at approximately 150°F until saturated. This innovative treatment significantly enhances the durability of polypropylene, extending its applicability in various industries.

Career Highlights: Throughout his career at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, William G. Reeves has been at the forefront of creating advanced nonwoven materials. His efforts in developing functional fabrics have placed him among the leading inventors in his field, contributing to both the commercial and healthcare sectors by addressing essential needs in material performance.

Collaborations: Reeves has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Leonard E. Duello and Michael David Powers, to produce groundbreaking innovations in material science. These partnerships reflect a commitment to advancing the technology behind nonwoven fabrics and ensuring their effective application in various industries.

Conclusion: William G. Reeves stands out as a prominent inventor whose work in developing conductive and water-repellent nonwoven materials has had a significant impact, particularly in healthcare settings. His contributions continue to pave the way for future innovations in material science, demonstrating the importance of targeted research and collaboration in creating functional, high-performance textiles.