Nien-Hwa Linda Wang

Title: Nien-Hwa Linda Wang: Innovator in Rare Earth Metal Extraction

Introduction

Nien-Hwa Linda Wang is a prominent inventor based in West Lafayette, IN (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the extraction and purification of rare earth metals from industrial waste. With a total of 7 patents to her name, her work is paving the way for more sustainable practices in chemical processing.

Latest Patents

Wang's latest patents focus on the preparation of rare earth metals and other chemicals from industrial waste coal ash. One of her notable processes involves a series of caustic extractions of coal ash at elevated temperatures, followed by acidic treatments to isolate and purify chemicals such as silica gel, sodium silicate, aluminum silicate, iron oxide, and rare earth elements (REEs). The process allows for the precipitation of aluminum silicate while keeping REEs in solution, which are then captured and enriched using an ion exchange column. Additionally, her research includes a simplified method that utilizes one caustic extraction and one acidic extraction, optimizing efficiency in the process.

Career Highlights

Wang is affiliated with the Purdue Research Foundation, where she continues to innovate and develop new methods for chemical extraction. Her work not only contributes to the field of chemical engineering but also addresses environmental concerns related to industrial waste.

Collaborations

Wang has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Hoon Choi and David Harvey, further enhancing her research and development efforts in the field.

Conclusion

Nien-Hwa Linda Wang's innovative approaches to the extraction of rare earth metals from industrial waste highlight her significant role in advancing sustainable chemical processes. Her contributions are essential for the future of environmental sustainability in the chemical industry.