Methods for producing low density products

US7455798B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• James Hardie International Finance B.V. · NL

Inventors

• Amlan Datta · Ashland, US
• Hamid Hojaji · Kensington, US
• Shannon Marie Labernik · Rancho Cucamonga, US
• David L. Melmeth · Fontana, US
• Thinh Pham · Sydney, AU
• Huagang Zhang · Yucaipa, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 25, 2004
• Grant date: Nov 25, 2008
• Expiry date: Mar 20, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02W30/91
• WIPO field: Materials, metallurgy
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A method of preparing a low-density material and precursor for forming a low-density material is provided. An aqueous mixture of inorganic primary component and a blowing agent is formed, the mixture is dried and optionally ground to form an expandable precursor. Such a precursor is then fired with activation of the blowing agent being controlled such that it is activated within a predetermined optimal temperature range. Control of the blowing agent can be accomplished via a variety of means including appropriate distribution throughout the precursor, addition of a control agent into the precursor, or modification of the firing conditions such as oxygen deficient or fuel rich environment, plasma heating etc.