Though trained as an engineer, Thomas Midgley, Jr. is best known as an industrial chemist. He was primarily responsible for four important advances in the field of chemistry: discovering effective antiknock additives for gasoline; developing a practical process for the extraction of bromine from seawater; advancing knowledge of the vulcanization of rubber and the composition of both natural and synthetic rubbers; and developing nontoxic and nonflammable gases for use in refrigeration and air-conditioning. As a result of his endeavors, he was awarded all four of the major American medals for achievements in chemistry.

Midgley was born on May 18, 1889, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the son of Thomas Midgley and Hattie Lena Emerson Midgley. His father was a prolific inventor, especially of improvements in automobile tires; he was also an entrepreneur, whose business ventures usually proved unprofitable. When he was about six years old, Midgley moved with his family to...