Eastman's innovation is one of 100 inventions worldwide to receive the coveted award. Past winners include the Kodak Photo CD, the fax machine, the halogen lamp and the automated teller machine. Eastman technical representative Richard Miller and research chemist Scott George codeveloped Eastman AQ 1350 polymer and jointly entered the competition. The new product, a branched polyester introduced and commercialized in the fall of 1995, can be used to formulate hot-melt adhesives that disperse easily in water. Hot-melt adhesives based on the new raw material can be used in a variety of applications including nonwoven products such as disposable diapers, packaging, bookbinding and labels.
Products containing the water-dispersible adhesive can then be more easily repulped or recycled.
George and Miller will accept the award for Eastman at a black-tie awards banquet on Oct. 14 at the Bellevue Hotel, Philadelphia. Copyright 2000 Eastman Chemical Company. All rights reserved. Please see our Legal Information.