Philip W Westerman

Title: Innovations of Philip W. Westerman in Wastewater Treatment

Introduction

Philip W. Westerman is an accomplished inventor based in Raleigh, NC (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of wastewater treatment, particularly in the removal of phosphorus from hog waste lagoons. With a total of 2 patents, his work addresses critical environmental challenges.

Latest Patents

Westerman's latest patents include a "Method for removing phosphorus from waste lagoon effluent" and an "Apparatus for removing phosphorus from waste lagoon effluent." Both inventions focus on an innovative approach to treating wastewater effluent streams from hog waste lagoons. The method involves introducing wastewater effluent to the bottom of an inverted cone-shaped continuous crystallizer that contains a fluidized bed of struvite. An effective amount of ammonia is added to elevate the pH of the wastewater, along with magnesium, to facilitate the reduction of total phosphorus content by up to about 80% or more. The treated effluent is then removed from the top of the crystallizer, while struvite crystals are periodically collected from a chamber beneath.

Career Highlights

Westerman is affiliated with North Carolina State University, where he continues to advance research in environmental engineering and wastewater management. His innovative solutions have garnered attention for their potential to improve water quality and sustainability.

Collaborations

Westerman collaborates with various professionals in his field, including his coworker Keith E. Bowers, to further enhance the effectiveness of his inventions.

Conclusion

Philip W. Westerman's contributions to wastewater treatment through his innovative patents demonstrate his commitment to addressing environmental issues. His work not only showcases his expertise but also highlights the importance of sustainable practices in managing waste.