Arkansas Patent of the Month – January 2022

Abrasive compounds can be used in processes as rough as high pressure cleaning of metal forges to those as delicate as polishing eyeglasses. This is thanks to the sheer variety of abrasive particles that can be used from diamond to grains. The grit of the abrasive compound is dependent on the size and texture of the final abrasive particle. For instance, a large particle may have more grit than a smaller particle. A smoother particle is less abrasive than a rough particle. The finish of the particle is all dependent on the final application of the abrasive compound. Ameripolish, Inc., an industry leader in concrete chemical technology, has developed a method that easily makes agglomerate particles of any kind. 

Their method involves a four step process:

  1. Forma slurry of agglomerate components in a polymerizable liquid resin carrier;
  2. Mix slurry with non-miscible fluid, forming discrete dispersed droplets;
  3. Solidify droplets, creating many solid particles;
  4. Isolate solid particles.

These four steps show a high level overview of the process which can be modified as needed for the specific compound. The particle size can be increased by adding a step which exposes the droplets to UVA radiation before solidification. The process can be applied to a wide range of materials including diamond powders, silicon carbide powders, alumina powders and more. The end size of the particles can range from 20 μm to approximately 500 μm. Between the range of materials and size of particles, the abrasive compounds can be used for nearly any application.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

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