Robert W Gillham

Title: The Innovative Mind of Robert W Gillham

Introduction

Robert W Gillham, a distinguished inventor based in Guelph, Canada, has made significant contributions to the field of environmental science and water treatment. With a remarkable portfolio of five patents, his work focuses on innovative methods to treat contaminated water, particularly addressing the challenges posed by chlorinated organic contaminants.

Latest Patents

Among his latest inventions, Gillham introduced a groundbreaking method for treating contaminated water. This process involves passing groundwater or other water types, contaminated with chlorinated organic contaminants, through a permeable body of iron particles. The uniqueness of this method lies in the incomplete coating of the iron particles with nickel, exposing some areas of the iron directly. This exposure allows contaminants to break down more effectively in proximity to the iron, with the nickel enhancing the catalytic effect. Remarkably, this method demonstrates a significantly faster rate of breakdown compared to using bare iron particles. Furthermore, when nickel is alloyed with phosphorus or boron, the breakdown rates are even more accelerated, showcasing Gillham's innovative approach to water treatment systems.

Career Highlights

Robert W Gillham has collaborated with several institutions throughout his career, contributing his expertise in environmental remediation and engineering. Notably, he has worked at the University of Waterloo, where he further honed his research skills and developed his patented technologies aimed at addressing critical environmental issues.

Collaborations

In his journey as an inventor, Gillham has collaborated with prominent figures such as John A Cherry and Enoch S Vales. Their combined expertise has undoubtedly contributed to the advancement of innovative solutions in water treatment and environmental protection.

Conclusion

Robert W Gillham exemplifies the spirit of innovation in environmental science through his dedicated work on water treatment technologies. His inventive methods for treating contaminated water not only reflect his creativity but also serve as crucial advancements in protecting and preserving our natural resources. As innovations in this field continue to evolve, Gillham's contributions will remain a significant part of the discourse on environmental remediation.