BILLINGS, Patricia, American art technologist, b-1926. A qualified artist whose interest was initially in sculpting using plaster of Paris. She knew that some Renaissance sculptors had used a cement-like material to ensure durability. So following an accident with a sculpture at a final stage, Patricia recreated such a cement additive (but it took 8 years). The product was a chemical catalyst that in the presence of a gypsum and concrete mixture would form an adhesive that was virtually indestructible. An advisor suggested the material had unexpected heat-resistance properties. So Patricia did further research work until the resulting product was non-toxic, heat resistant and durable. She called it Geobond, the first real alternative to asbestos. Although she has 2 patents relating to the material, the formula is still unknown. She produced a second product later called Craftcote, for simply repairing sculptures (the original purpose). It was during the 1970s, at about the age of 50, when she diversified into art technology.