Wilhelmina Du Plessis

Title: Wilhelmina Du Plessis: Innovator in Chemical Processing

Introduction

Wilhelmina Du Plessis is a notable inventor based in Centurion, South Africa. She has made significant contributions to the field of chemical processing, holding three patents that showcase her innovative approach to treating chemical feedstocks and minerals. Her work is instrumental in advancing technologies related to zirconium and mineral processing.

Latest Patents

Du Plessis's latest patents include a process for treating zirconium-containing feedstocks. This process involves fluorinating a feedstock comprising dissociated zircon to obtain zirconium and silicon fluorine compounds. The zirconium fluorine compound is then separated from the silicon fluorine compound. Additionally, the zirconium fluorine compound can be reacted with various halogens to produce zirconium non-fluorine halides. Another significant patent focuses on treating minerals, where she developed a method for reacting minerals or metal oxides with ammonium acid fluoride to produce ammonium fluorometallate compounds.

Career Highlights

Wilhelmina Du Plessis is currently employed at the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation Limited. Her role at this esteemed organization allows her to apply her expertise in chemical processing and contribute to advancements in nuclear energy applications. Her innovative work has garnered attention in the scientific community.

Collaborations

Du Plessis has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Johannes Theodorus Nel and Willem Liebenberg Retief. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of ideas and fostered innovation in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Wilhelmina Du Plessis stands out as a pioneering inventor in the realm of chemical processing. Her patents reflect her commitment to innovation and her contributions to the industry are invaluable. Her work continues to influence advancements in the treatment of chemical feedstocks and minerals.