Stephanie Kwolek by Pablo Bea Martínez

1923

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:35:09 UTC

Stephanie Kwolek is born on July 31 in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, USA.

1946

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Stephanie Kwolek graduates with a bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University.

1950

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Kwolek earns her Master's degree in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University.

1964

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:45:52 UTC

Stephanie Kwolek begins working at the DuPont Company in their research and development division.

1965

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:46:46 UTC

While working at DuPont, Kwolek discovers a unique liquid crystalline solution that, when spun into fibers, exhibits exceptional strength and stiffness at low density.

1971

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:48:31 UTC

Kwolek's groundbreaking work on liquid crystalline polymers leads to the development of Kevlar, a high-strength synthetic fiber known for its remarkable tensile strength and heat resistance.

1973

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:49:16 UTC

Kevlar is introduced to the public and commercialized by DuPont for various applications, including as a component in bulletproof vests, tires, and other industrial and military uses.

1986

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:49:46 UTC

Stephanie Kwolek is awarded the DuPont Company's Lavoisier Medal for outstanding technical achievement.

1994

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:50:29 UTC

Kwolek is inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame for her invention of Kevlar.

2003

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:50:58 UTC

Kwolek receives the Perkin Medal, one of the highest honors in the field of applied chemistry, in recognition of her contributions to the development of Kevlar.

2014

pbeamartin1 — 2024-03-06 20:51:24 UTC

Stephanie Kwolek passes away on June 18, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and scientific achievement.