ROB BOWMAN AND THE ADVENT OF SURFACTANT MODIFIED ZEOLITES (Invited Presentation)

Sometime around 1985, Rob Bowman had the idea to take zeolites and to modify them with surfactants to create a multi-species adsorbent material for environmental remediation. More than 30 years later, these sorbents are recognized worldwide for their unique properties, and capabilities to extract contaminants from natural and engineered systems. I will review the status of the original clinoptilolite zeolite material from the St. Cloud Mine in Winston, New Mexico, including current uses for mine waste and runoff remediation; the uses and status of multiple patented products in commercial development by IX Power of Denver, Colorado; and the potential for further uses in water treatment and other challenging environmental and industrial processes. Rob’s original idea has spread across multiple universities and institutions, has supported over 30 students, has attracted millions of dollars in investment, and is still going strong today.