Our Story
From Discovery to Commercialization
ZPore LLC was founded to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world impact. Emerging from collaborative innovations at the University of Illinois Chicago , we set out with a clear mission: to commercialize gyroid-based membrane technologies that outperform conventional systems by an order of magnitude.
Our journey began with a breakthrough: the 3D Gyroid Membrane Contactor (3D-GMC), capable of removing more than 90% of CO₂ in under one second, at a fraction of the size of traditional systems. Inspired by this success, we expanded into healthcare, designing biomimetic 3D membranes for wearable and implantable renal assist devices that promise faster filtration and greater patient freedom.
Recognizing the urgent global need for critical materials, we further developed Lanmodulin-functionalized 3D gyroid columns (3D-GC-LanM) to efficiently recover rare earth elements from industrial and electronic waste, supporting circular economy goals and reducing reliance on mining.
Our Vision
We believe the future of separation technologies must be compact, energy-efficient, and sustainable. By merging biology-inspired design with advanced manufacturing, ZPore LLC is delivering scalable solutions for industries and societies facing urgent challenges—decarbonization, clean water, sustainable healthcare, and critical material security.
From air to water to life itself—our gyroid membranes are shaping the next era of separation science.
Meet the Team
CEO
Hyang Seol
Dr. Hyang Seol, founder and CEO of ZPore, LLC, brings a profound depth of expertise with 20 years of experience in materials science and membrane development. Her academic prowess is complemented by hands-on fieldwork, where she has applied her knowledge to the design and performance testing of workplace tools and devices. Her professional researcher journey, which began with earning her PhD, MS, and BS from Seoul National University in South Korea, was further enriched by research roles at esteemed institutions such as the University of Cincinnati, Virginia Tech, and the University of Illinois at Chicago. This diverse background equips Dr. Seol with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, positioning her as a leading figure in the advancement of membrane technologies at ZPore, LLC.
CSO
Sangil Kim
Dr. Sangil Kim is a co-founder of ZPore and Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering at University of Illinois, Chicago. As the Chief Scientific Officer at ZPore, LLC, Dr. Kim uses his vast chemical engineering and materials science expertise to lead innovative carbon capture initiatives. With over two decades of experience spanning industry, national laboratories, and academia, he specializes in developing nano-composite membrane fabrication and separation technologies. This includes significant work on selective inorganic & polymeric membranes, and membrane contactors. Holding a Ph.D. from Virginia Tech and making significant contributions at institutions like the University of Illinois-Chicago, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Porifera Inc., he has been pivotal in advancing membrane technologies for environmental applications.
CTO
Yongman Kim
Dr. Yongman Kim serves as the Chief Technical Officer at ZPore, LLC, where he combines cutting-edge scientific expertise from his distinguished career at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBL) and substantial industrial experience. At the LBL, Dr. Kim has been at the forefront of environmental and materials science research, making significant contributions to CO2 capturing technologies. His practical engineering product development roles in several industries have honed his skills in bringing scientific innovations to market. This unique blend of research excellence and industrial acumen enables Dr. Kim to lead ZPore's technical vision, ensuring our CO2 separation technologies are both innovative and commercially viable. Dr. Kim earned his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California, and his MS/BS from Seoul National University, South Korea.
Partnership
ZPore is proud to work with internationally-recognized partners.
