John T Rich

Title: The Innovative Mind of John T. Rich

Introduction

John T. Rich, an accomplished inventor based in Lebanon, Tennessee, has made significant contributions to the field of material identification and recycling technologies. With a total of two patents to his name, his work focuses on improving the efficiency of recycling processes, particularly through the application of advanced spectroscopic techniques.

Latest Patents

Rich's latest inventions include a "Process and apparatus for spectroscopic identification and sorting of barrier materials" and the application of "Raman spectroscopy to identification and sorting of post-consumer plastics for recycling."

The first patent involves an innovative apparatus and process that utilizes spectral information in the mid-infrared range (400 to 4500 cm) to differentiate between recyclable materials containing barrier polymers and those without. This process includes projecting mid-infrared light onto materials, dispersing the reflected light into various wavelengths, and comparing intensity measurements to identify the materials accurately.

The second patent presents a high-accuracy system that sorts waste products by polymer type using Raman spectroscopy. This system reads unique information from the molecular structure of the materials to sort post-consumer plastics effectively, achieving commercially viable throughput rates by employing laser diodes, spectrographs, and microprocessor-based controllers.

Career Highlights

John T. Rich is currently affiliated with National Recovery Technologies, Inc., where he leverages his expertise to develop efficient recycling technologies. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing eco-friendly practices through innovative engineering solutions.

Collaborations

In his pursuits, Rich has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Edward J. Sommer, Jr. and Robert D. Guenard. Together, they contribute to the ongoing enhancement of recycling methods and technologies at National Recovery Technologies, Inc.

Conclusion

John T. Rich's contributions to the field of recycling technology reflect a dedication to innovation and environmental sustainability. Through his patents, he has paved the way for more effective sorting techniques that not only benefit the recycling industry but also support global sustainability efforts. His work continues to inspire others in the pursuit of advanced materials management solutions.