John M Napier

Title: The Innovations of John M. Napier: A Pioneer in Water Treatment Technologies

Introduction

John M. Napier, based in Oak Ridge, TN, is a notable inventor whose expertise lies in the field of environmental technologies, particularly related to water treatment. With a total of four patents to his credit, Napier has significantly contributed to the development of processes aimed at purifying water from harmful metals, including mercury.

Latest Patents

Among his latest innovations, one of the most impressive is a patented process for removing metals from water. This detailed process includes several steps: prefiltering solids from the water, adjusting the pH level to between about 2 and 3, reducing the dissolved oxygen content, increasing the pH to between about 6 and 8, and then adding water-soluble sulfide to precipitate insoluble sulfide- and hydroxide-forming metals. The final steps involve adding a flocculating agent, separating the precipitate-containing floc, and postfiltering the resultant solution. Notably, the postfiltered solution can be optionally eluted through an ion exchange resin to eliminate residual metal ions.

Another significant invention by Napier is his process for removing mercury from aqueous solutions, designed to achieve mercury levels not exceeding two parts per billion. This process utilizes an anion exchange material that is insoluble in water, treating it first with a sulfide-containing compound and then with a compound that contains a bivalent metal ion, forming an insoluble metal sulfide. After treatment, the exchange material is exposed to water containing mercury, leading to effective separation.

Career Highlights

John M. Napier's work has been recognized within various institutions and companies, including his contributions to the United States of America as represented by the United States. His innovative approaches have garnered attention for their effectiveness in addressing critical environmental challenges.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Napier has had the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals, including John M. Googin and Michael A. Travaglini. These collaborations have enriched his inventions and enhanced the impact of his contributions within the field of water treatment.

Conclusion

John M. Napier stands out as an influential figure in the development of innovative technologies for water purification. His patents reflect a commitment to improving environmental health through advanced scientific processes. As he continues to develop groundbreaking solutions, his work is likely to have a lasting positive impact on water treatment practices.