Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Location: Garden Plaza Hotel, Johnson City, TN (map available upon request)

Title: The Art and Science of Process Development in the Fine Chemical Industry

Abstract: The art of Process Development is not well understood except in the case of those who practice it. The task of developing a process for the manufacture of discovered molecules, first made on a very small scale, will be discussed in detail. Special attention to chemical safety, chemical hygiene, environmental stewardship, and process economics will be given. Case studies from the author’s experience will be used to illustrate the problems process development chemists must solve. The talk is intended for a general audience. Student attendance is especially encouraged.

Bob Maleski graduated with a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Purdue University in 1971 and joined the Organic Chemicals Division of the Tennessee Eastman Company as a Dye Development Chemist in 1972. In 1975 he moved to the Research Laboratories, where he was involved in synthesizing new azo dyes for use in photographic applications. In 1980 he returned to Development Chemistry, and is now a Senior Development Associate in the Chemicals Development Division, Eastman Chemical Company, Kingsport. He is the author of several patents and publications concerning synthesis of Fine Chemicals. He has served NETS as Chairman and Councilor. His national ACS activities have been primarily in the Chemical Technology area. He is past Chair of the Committee on Technician Activities and is currently Chair of the Chemical Technology Approval Service.