Willem Liebenberg Retief

Title: Willem Liebenberg Retief: Innovator in Chemical Processing

Introduction

Willem Liebenberg Retief is a notable inventor based in Auburn Hills, MI (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of chemical processing, holding three patents that showcase his innovative approaches to treating chemical feedstocks and minerals.

Latest Patents

Retief's latest patents include a process for treating zirconium-containing feedstocks. This process involves fluorinating a feedstock comprising dissociated zircon to obtain a zirconium fluorine compound and a silicon fluorine compound. The zirconium fluorine compound is then separated from the silicon fluorine compound. Additionally, the zirconium fluorine compound can be reacted with a non-fluorine halogen or an alkali metal non-fluorine halide to produce a zirconium non-fluorine halide. This compound is subjected to plasma reduction in the presence of a reductant to obtain metallic zirconium. Another patent focuses on treating minerals, where a feedstock comprising a mineral or metal oxide/silicate is reacted with an ammonium acid fluoride to produce an ammonium fluorometallate compound.

Career Highlights

Retief is currently associated with the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation Limited, where he applies his expertise in chemical processing. His work has been instrumental in advancing methods for mineral treatment and zirconium processing.

Collaborations

Retief has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Johannes Theodorus Nel and Wilhelmina Du Plessis, contributing to various innovative projects in the field.

Conclusion

Willem Liebenberg Retief stands out as a significant figure in the realm of chemical processing innovations. His patents reflect a deep understanding of chemical feedstocks and minerals, paving the way for advancements in the industry.