Norm Rathie

Career Objective To develop environmentally sustainable and economically transformative chemical process using solvent extraction technology for recovery of valuable materials from a wide range different feed streams. Abilities Strong problem and strategic thinking skills: For the past 17 years have worked with proprietary world class technology for recovery and purification of heavy metals from a wide variety of waste streams and processes; have successfully solved numerous technical problems at lab and pilot scale. Key Skills With the assistance of a long term mentor have developed excellent science and hydro-metallurgy skills with strong application skills in both organic and inorganic chemistry. Possess hands on problem solving skills and unique ability to link novel technology solutions with commercial needs. Primary inventor of a number of patentable metallurgical processes. Over 20 years experience in the chemical and metallurgical processing industry. Excellent business entrepreneur skills having secured numerous research development contracts. Application Work Experience 1) Built and ran a plot plant for the recovery of high purity gallium from scrap gallium arsenide and gallium phosphide generated by the optoelectronics and microwave communications industry. 2) Developed patentable low cost, high value added chemical process route for conversion of cellulosic biomass into bio-fuels and biochemicals. Technology enhances fractionation of cellulosic biomass and results in conversion of crystalline cellulose contained in cellulosic biomass into amorphous cellulose which is a feed stock which can readily be converted into biochemicals and bio-fuels in high yield at low cost. 3) Developed patentable low energy, labor and chemical consumption process for sustainable recovery of valuable materials from e-waste materials, while isolating and concentrating hazardous components contained in e-waste.