Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1985-1989
Title: **William H. Graves, Jr.: Innovator in Tobacco Materials**
Introduction
William H. Graves, Jr. is an innovative inventor based in Pfafftown, North Carolina, known for his contributions to the field of tobacco materials. With a remarkable portfolio of seven patents, Graves has made significant advancements in the production and processing of smokable tobacco products.
Latest Patents
Graves' most recent patents focus on the development of extruded tobacco materials. His first innovation involves an extruded smokable material achieved by extruding a moist mixture of divided tobacco and a binding agent, which includes locust bean gum and xanthan gum. The unique process subjects the mixture to temperatures around 80 °C, allowing the binding agents to be activated. This method enhances the adhesive qualities of the material through heat-induced inter polymer chain associations, resulting in a resilient smokable product.
In another notable patent, he developed a co-extruded smokable material with a multi-layered structure. This innovative material is created by subjecting at least two filler materials to high shear agitation and co-extruding them in a semi-soft state. The multi-layered material is specifically designed to be treated and sized, resulting in sheet-like forms that can be easily cut into small sheets or strands for cigarette manufacturing.
Career Highlights
Graves’ impactful career is firmly rooted in the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, where he has been able to channel his inventive spirit into tangible products that enhance the smokable tobacco experience. His dedication to innovation and his insight into tobacco engineering have solidified his reputation as a key inventor in the industry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Graves has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Gary W. Wallace and Bruce P. Bradford. These partnerships exemplify the collaborative effort within the industry to foster innovation and improve product quality in tobacco materials.
Conclusion
William H. Graves, Jr.'s contributions through his patents demonstrate his extraordinary impact on the tobacco industry. As he continues to explore new technologies and methods, his work will likely influence future advancements in smokable materials, furthering his legacy as a leading inventor in the field.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.