Perkin Medal
Overview
The Perkin Medal is a prestigious award given annually by the Society of Chemical Industry (American Section) to a scientist residing in America for an outstanding innovation in applied chemistry that resulted in outstanding commercial development. It is considered the highest honor given in the US industrial chemistry field.
History
The Perkin Medal was first awarded in 1906 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the synthetic dye mauveine by Sir William Henry Perkin. Perkin was an English chemist best known for his accidental discovery at the age of 18, which marked the start of the synthetic dye industry. The medal was established to stimulate the development of chemical industries in the United States and to recognize those who made significant contributions to the field.
Design
The medal is made of gold and features a profile of Sir William Perkin. The reverse side of the medal bears the inscription, "To commemorate the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Discovery of Aniline Dyes". The medal is presented at a banquet held in its honor, typically in September of each year.
Eligibility and Selection
The recipient of the Perkin Medal is selected by a committee of distinguished chemists and chemical industry leaders. The nominee must have made an outstanding contribution to the field of applied chemistry, and their work must have resulted in a significant commercial development. The nominee must also be a resident of the United States.
Notable Recipients
Over the years, the Perkin Medal has been awarded to many notable scientists. Some of the most distinguished recipients include Leo Hendrik Baekeland, the inventor of Bakelite; Carl Duisberg, who developed the synthetic dye industry in Germany; and Robert L. Letsinger, known for his contributions to the field of nucleic acid chemistry.
Impact and Significance
The Perkin Medal is often considered the highest honor in the American chemical industry. It not only recognizes individual achievements but also highlights the importance of applied chemistry in industrial development. The award has played a significant role in promoting the growth and advancement of the chemical industry in the United States.