Cindy Phelps

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Cindy Phelps

Introduction

Cindy Phelps is a notable inventor based in Moscow, ID (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the area of metal extraction processes. With a total of 2 patents, her work focuses on environmentally friendly methods for separating metals from various materials.

Latest Patents

Cindy Phelps holds two recent patents that showcase her innovative approaches. The first patent describes a method for separating metal chelates from other materials based on solubilities in supercritical fluids. This method utilizes a supercritical extraction process that varies the solvent power of the supercritical fluid, allowing for the separation of desired metals or metalloids from impurities. The use of adduct-forming agents, such as phosphorous-containing ligands, enhances the efficiency of this process. The preferred extraction solvent is supercritical carbon dioxide, and the chelating agents include a variety of compounds, including β-diketones and phosphine oxides.

The second patent focuses on extracting metals directly from metal oxides. This method involves exposing the oxide to a supercritical fluid solvent containing a chelating agent, which forms soluble chelates that facilitate the removal of metals like uranium, thorium, or plutonium. This environmentally benign process eliminates the need for acids or harmful solvents, making it a sustainable option for metal extraction.

Career Highlights

Cindy Phelps is associated with the Idaho Research Foundation, Inc., where she continues to develop her innovative ideas. Her work has garnered attention for its potential applications in various industries, particularly in environmental sustainability and resource recovery.

Collaborations

Cindy has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Chien M Wai and Neil G Smart. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of her research and the successful development of her patented technologies.

Conclusion

Cindy Phelps exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the field of chemical engineering. Her patents reflect a commitment to developing sustainable methods for metal extraction, showcasing her role as a leading inventor in her field.