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Today In History with The Retrospectors
The Plastic That Changed The World
Feb 5, 2024
Discover the fascinating story of Leo Baekeland and his invention of Bakelite, a groundbreaking plastic material with countless uses. From explosive billiard balls to its role in art crimes, explore how Bakelite revolutionized various industries and became a game-changer in the early 20th century.
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Quick takeaways
- Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic, revolutionized various industries and applications due to its durability, affordability, and versatility.
- Bakelite's use as a paint hardener in a forged Vermeer painting exposed the fraudulent activities of an art forger, highlighting the material's distinctive properties.
Deep dives
Leo Bakeland and the Invention of Bakelite
Leo Bakeland, a chemist and inventor, is famous for his invention of Bakelite, the first thermosetting resin. In 1909, Bakeland discovered this plastic by experimenting with combining fennel and formaldehyde. Bakelite became the first commercially successful completely synthetic plastic, known for its durability and heat resistance. Initially used as a replacement for natural resins like shellac, Bakelite had numerous applications such as electrical insulators, jewelry, cigarette holders, and automotive and radio components. Its affordability and versatility made it economically valuable to America, as it didn't rely on importing any components. Bakelite's success also paved the way for other artificial fibers in fashion, like nylon and polyester.
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