William Krug

Title: Innovations by William Krug in Polyurethane Foam Technology

Introduction

William Krug is an accomplished inventor based in Heidelberg, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the field of polyurethane foam technology, holding a total of four patents. His innovative work focuses on developing environmentally friendly release agents for the production of polyurethane foam articles.

Latest Patents

One of Krug's latest patents is a release agent for urethane foam molding. This novel aqueous release agent contains oil and/or wax emulsified in water, along with aliphatic primary, secondary, and/or tertiary amines with at least one C12-C24 alkyl radical. It also includes ammonium salts as emulsifiers for the amines. The invention is based on the surprising discovery that hydrophobic amines, known as fatty amines, serve as effective release-active substances. Furthermore, the use of ammonium salts as emulsifiers not only maintains but often enhances mold removal characteristics, a notable improvement over conventional emulsifiers. This release agent is particularly suitable for processes that produce polyurethane foam articles.

Another significant patent involves a process for producing articles made from polyurethane foam. This process utilizes a solvent-free, aqueous release agent combined with alkali metal and/or ammonium salts of higher fatty acids and higher alcohols. The combination is applied to the mold surface at elevated temperatures, preferably above 75°C. This innovative process avoids the use of environmentally harmful organic solvents while producing excellent release agent films that evaporate water quickly, aligning with the rapid cycle times of modern foam production plants.

Career Highlights

William Krug has worked with notable companies in the chemical industry, including Grace Service Chemicals GmbH and W. R. Grace & Co. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing advanced materials for polyurethane applications.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Krug has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Wolfgang Fischer and Thomas Hattich. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that has led to innovative advancements in the field.

Conclusion

William Krug's contributions to polyurethane foam technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as a significant inventor in the industry. His work not only advances the technology but also emphasizes the importance of environmentally friendly practices in manufacturing.