Thinh K Pham

US Patent:

20040262801, Dec 30, 2004

Filed:

Feb 25, 2004

Appl. No.:

10/787894

Inventors:

Hamid Hojaji - Claremont CA, US
Shannon Labernik - Rancho Cucamonga CA, US
Thinh Pham - Rancho Cucamonga CA, US
Huagang Zhang - Yucaipa CA, US

International Classification:

C04B035/64
C03B019/08

US Classification:

264/044000, 264/610000, 065/022000

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.