Cheol Woo Yoon

Title: Innovations by Cheol Woo Yoon in Rare Earth Element Recovery

Introduction

Cheol Woo Yoon is an accomplished inventor based in Incheon, South Korea. He has made significant contributions to the field of environmental research, particularly in the recovery of rare earth elements from waste materials. His innovative methods have the potential to greatly benefit industrial processes and sustainability.

Latest Patents

Cheol Woo Yoon holds a patent for a method of separating rare earth elements from rare earth polishing powder wastes. This invention utilizes a hydrometallurgical process that involves synthesizing sodium rare-earth double sulfates by adding sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide to the waste. The process further converts these sulfates into rare earth hydroxides and separates valuable elements such as cerium (Ce), lanthanum (La), praseodymium (Pr), and neodymium (Nd) through the addition of hydrochloric and sulfuric acids. Remarkably, this method allows for the recovery of over 99% of rare earth elements, enabling their recycling and providing substantial economic benefits.

Career Highlights

Cheol Woo Yoon is affiliated with the National Institute of Environmental Research, where he conducts research focused on environmental sustainability and resource recovery. His work has been instrumental in advancing methods for recycling rare earth elements, which are critical for various high-tech applications.

Collaborations

He collaborates with notable colleagues, including Namil Um and Mi-Jeong Jeong, who contribute to his research efforts and innovations in the field.

Conclusion

Cheol Woo Yoon's innovative approach to recovering rare earth elements from waste materials exemplifies the intersection of environmental science and industrial application. His contributions not only enhance resource recovery but also promote sustainability in industrial practices.