Katharine Burr Blodgett (January 10, 1898 – October 12, 1979) was an American physicist and chemist known for her pioneering work in surface chemistry and thin film technology. Here is a detailed biography of Katharine Burr Blodgett:
Early Life and Education (1898–1921):
- Birth and Family: Katharine Burr Blodgett was born on January 10, 1898, in Schenectady, New York. Her father, George Blodgett, was a patent attorney.
- Education at Bryn Mawr College: Blodgett attended Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, where she studied physics and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1917.
- Graduate Studies at the University of Chicago: Blodgett pursued graduate studies in physics at the University of Chicago under the supervision of Nobel laureate Robert A. Millikan.
- Doctoral Research: Blodgett completed her doctoral research on the measurement of the thickness of a single molecule, earning her Ph.D. in physics in 1921. She was the first woman to receive a doctorate in physics from the University of Cambridge.
Research at General Electric (1923–1939):
- Joining General Electric (GE): In 1923, Blodgett joined the research laboratories at General Electric (GE) in Schenectady, New York.
- Surface Chemistry Research: Blodgett’s early research at GE focused on surface chemistry, particularly the behavior of thin films on water surfaces.
- Monomolecular Layers: Blodgett developed a technique for creating monomolecular layers of molecules on the surface of water, a method known as the Langmuir-Blodgett trough.
- Langmuir-Blodgett Film: In collaboration with Irving Langmuir, Blodgett developed the Langmuir-Blodgett film, a single molecular layer of a substance transferred onto a solid substrate. This technique had applications in various fields, including optics and coatings.
- Thin Film Technology: Blodgett’s work laid the foundation for thin film technology, which later found applications in anti-reflective coatings, lubricants, and other industrial products.
World War II and Later Career (1940–1979):
- World War II Research: During World War II, Blodgett contributed to wartime research, particularly on oil-spreading agents used to control fires caused by incendiary bombs.
- Recognition and Honors: Blodgett received numerous awards and honors for her contributions, including the Garvan Medal from the American Chemical Society in 1951.
- Retirement and Legacy: Blodgett retired from GE in 1958 but continued to be involved in scientific research and education. Her work has had a lasting impact on the fields of physics and materials science.
- Death: Katharine Burr Blodgett passed away on October 12, 1979, in Schenectady, New York, at the age of 81.
Legacy:
- Pioneering Contributions: Blodgett’s pioneering contributions to surface chemistry and thin film technology revolutionized various industries and laid the groundwork for further developments in materials science.
- Awards and Recognition: Blodgett’s achievements were recognized with several awards and honors, and her legacy continues to inspire scientists in the fields of physics and chemistry.
- Langmuir-Blodgett Technique: The Langmuir-Blodgett technique remains a fundamental method in materials science and is used in the creation of thin films with precise control over molecular arrangements.
- Impact on Materials Science: Blodgett’s research has had a profound impact on the development of materials with specific properties, leading to advancements in optics, electronics, and coatings.
Katharine Burr Blodgett’s innovative research and groundbreaking techniques in surface chemistry and thin film technology have left an enduring legacy in the scientific community. Her work laid the foundation for numerous applications in industry and continues to influence advancements in materials science today.
