Midgley, Thomas, Jr

Name:
Midgley, Thomas, Jr
Detailed information:
(1889–1944). An American chemist and inventor. One of the most creative and brilliant chemists of his era, Midgley's early work was in the field of rubber chemistry and technology, especially in the development of synthetic and substitute rubbers that were being introduced in the 1930s. He worked with Kettering at General Motors and then became vice president of Ethyl Corporation, as well as of the Ohio State University Research Foundation. His innovative genius was responsible for the development of organic lead compounds for antiknock gasoline and later for the discovery of fluorocarbon refrigerants for which he did the basic research. He was recipient of many of chemistry's highest honors including the Nichols medal, the Perkin medal, and the Priestly medal.