Fluorine Chemist: Hydrogen Fluoride, Fluorocarbons and Chlorine Free Refrigerant Development (1315)
Expertise
Organofluorine chemistry, with emphasis on synthesis of C1-C4 molecules.
Chemistry of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (HF; basic raw material).
Catalysts for fluorination of chlorocarbons to produce fluorocarbons.
Fluorinated monomers and fluoropolymers.
Partially fluorinated polymers for oil and water-proofing of textiles.
Fiber-reactive dyes for cotton.
Experience
Independent Consultant 1996 - Present
The Dupont Company 1957 - 1996
Positions held with Dupont (in order of progression): Chemist, Senior Chemist, Research Associate, Senior Research Associate. In recognition of expertise in the field, appointed Technology Guardian for Fluorochemicals
Fluorochemical Projects 1963-1996
Fluoropolymer lubricant oils, fluorosurfactants, fluorinated repellents for textiles.
With the beginning of the concern by Dupont about the impact of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the earth's ozone layer, in 1974, was assigned to develop alternative products for CFC's.
Played a significant role in identifying and demonstrating commercial processes for HFC-134a, HFC-125, HCFC-123, HCFC-124 and HCFC-141b as well as for a key intermediate, CFC-113a.
Developed an extensive knowledge base about the purity of hydrogen fluoride (the common raw material for almost all fluorochemicals), catalysts for the manufacture of fluorocarbons, and the nature of impurities accumulating in these catalysts and their disposal.
Special Fluorochemical Assignment (1990-1996)
Appointed technical expert as part of a business team promoting the introduction of CFC replacements in the USSR, mainland China and South Korea.
As part of the team, recipient of the Dupont Marketing Excellence award in 1992.
Honors & Publications
28 patents; 19 dealing with hydrogen fluoride, fluorination catalysts and CFC replacements.
Many publications.
Education
PhD., Organic Chemistry, University of Minnesota
B.S., Chemistry, University of Illinois
Bachelors and PhD theses in the area of heterocyclic nitrogen chemistry