Patents, what are they good for? Academic chemistry researcher’s perceptions of patents and their importance

This paper asks the following questions: What are the patent reading and consulting habits of Brazilian chemistry researchers and how does this affect their approach to using/applying patents in their research? A total of 421 researchers were canvassed regarding their patent reading habits and only a minority (42.8%) consult patents. Of these, 92.2% consider patents as relevant sources of information, with 95% already benefiting from patents. However, researchers criticize the content and/or technical details in patents. The majority of canvassed researchers (78.3%) encourage students to use patent databases and/or deposit patents. However, most researchers prefer to publish articles, which provide greater visibility. Where appropriate, individual comments are included, providing insight into their opinions regarding patents. •421 university researchers in the area of chemistry were consulted vis a vi their patent consulting habits.•Most participating researchers do not have the habit of consulting patents (57.2%) for their research.•Researchers cite delays in patent processing in Brazil discourages patenting.•Most researchers prefer to publish their studies in scientific journals than deposit patents.