That's quite a legacy.As one of the few pioneering female chemists in the 1960s, Stephanie Kwolek invented the flexible, tougher than steel fibers that were used to create life-saving body armor for law enforcement and soldiers.
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"She leaves a wonderful legacy of thousands of lives saved and countless injuries prevented by products made possible by her discovery," DuPont CEO Ellen Kullman said in a statement.
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In 1965, Kwolek devised a liquid crystal solution that could be cold-spun. Nearly half a century later, her discovery and legacy have endured through a variety of goods ranging from bulletproof vests to sports rackets and smartphones.
Earlier this week, the one millionth vest using the latest Kevlar technology was sold, according to DuPont, showing just how important Kwolek's discovery remains, even half a century after she did what researchers had long struggled to do.
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Stephanie Kwolek was a chemist and inventor who is best known for her creation of Kevlar, a strong and lightweight synthetic fiber used in a variety of products such as body armor, tires, and ropes.
Stephanie Kwolek passed away on June 18, 2014 at the age of 90.
Kevlar is used in a wide range of products, including bulletproof vests, helmets, tires, and even spacecraft materials. Its strength and durability make it a valuable material in various industries.
Stephanie Kwolek's interest in science and invention led her to experiment with different materials. She was inspired by her work with liquid crystalline polymers and her desire to create a strong and lightweight fiber.
Stephanie Kwolek's legacy is her groundbreaking invention of Kevlar, which has saved countless lives and revolutionized the manufacturing and safety industries. She is also remembered for breaking barriers in the male-dominated field of science and inspiring future generations of women in STEM.