Professor Jan D. Miller, a member of National Academy of Engineering (NAE), chair of Metallurgical Engineering Department, University of Utah, visited Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IPE-CAS) on March 6, 2011. Professor Miller was invited to be an honorary researcher of IPE. Zhang Yi, CAS member, on behalf of IPE awarded the appointment certificate to Prof. Miller at the meeting.

As part of the "SKIPER LECTURE" organized by IPE, Prof. Miller gave presentation titled as "3D Characterization, Analysis, and Simulation of Multiphase Particulate Systems Using X-ray Computed Tomography" to introduce his research work. In the lecture, the technology of 3D image analysis using high-resolution X-ray Microscope CT system was introduced, and this technology was widely used in a variety of scientific disciplines. For example, its application in mineral engineering includes the study of particle property analysis, liberation analysis, filtration/heap leaching analysis, etc. exhibiting great potential for the investigation of mineral processing technologies and extraction mechanisms.

After the presentation, researchers from IPE and Prof. Miller had a heated discussion about the future collaboration for research topics of mutual interest. Zhang Yi believed that the application of advanced instrumentation such as the X-Ray CT for the study of particulate system, as well as fundamental study of solution chemistry, colloid surface chemistry was critical in floatation, hydrometallurgy and environmental technologies. Prof. Miller's rich experience and knowledge in these fields will benefit the researches carried out in IPE. In addition, the Sub-Molten Salt cleaner production technology has been developed to be a platform that can be used to extract many amphoteric metals from ores. Revealing the reaction mechanism of this new medium was a very important scientific topic, and could enhance the fundamental research level of IPE if solid research collaboration can be established between IPE and the University of Utah. Further, the collaboration would be beneficial to both organizations.

Dr. Miller is the Chair and Ivor D. Thomas Professor of Metallurgical Engineering at the University of Utah. Professor Miller's research covers the areas of mineral processing and coal preparation, specializing in particulate systems, aqueous solution chemistry, colloid and surface chemistry, and environmental processing technology. Additional research is being conducted in hydrometallurgy, flotation chemistry, and particle technology. Current work includes the development of x-ray CT technology for 3-D analysis of complex particulate systems including liberation/exposure analysis, and on-line coal washability analysis. Also in progress is a program to develop flotation technology for the trona industry, a program for the preparation of magnetic activated carbon, and a program for improved design/operation of heap leach operations. Since joining the faculty in 1968, Dr. Miller has obtained 25 patents, the licensing income of which has generated over $750,000 for the University of Utah. In the last ten years grant monies to support Dr. Miller's research programs has totaled over 10 million dollars. He has authored/co-authored more than400 publications.