A renowned organometallic chemist who made significant contributions to the development of transition metal complexes and their applications in catalysis, particularly in the petroleum industry.
Peter Maitlis, a renowned British organometallic chemist, is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of organometallic chemistry, particularly in the study of platinum group metals. His work has led to significant advancements in our understanding of the properties and behavior of these metals, earning him numerous accolades and recognition within the scientific community.
Maitlis was born on January 15, 1933, and educated at Hendon School and Hendon County School in north London. He went on to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Science from the University of Birmingham and later earned his PhD in 1956 under the guidance of Professor Michael J. S. Dewar, a prominent figure in the development of the Dewar-Chatt-Duncanson model for bonding in organometallic compounds.
Maitlis' most notable contributions include the publication of two volumes on the organic chemistry of palladium in 1971, which remain the most authoritative account of organopalladium complexes. His work has also demonstrated the solvolysis reaction of the hexafluorophosphate ion, a previously considered inert counterion in organometallic synthesis.
In addition, Maitlis' research has explored the properties of hexamethyl Dewar benzene (C6Me6) and its reaction with metal centers. His findings have far-reaching implications for the development of new organometallic compounds and their applications.
Maitlis was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1984, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the field of organometallic chemistry. His citation highlights his work on the platinum group metals palladium, rhodium, and iridium.
Peter Maitlis' pioneering work has paved the way for future generations of organometallic chemists. His research has not only advanced our understanding of these complex compounds but has also opened up new avenues for their application in fields such as catalysis, materials science, and medicine. As a leading figure in his field, Maitlis' legacy continues to inspire and influence the scientific community.
Born in 1921
A British chemist and academic who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1973 for his work on organometallic compounds, particularly sandwich compounds. He made significant contributions to the field of inorganic chemistry.
97 Years Old
Developed innovative synthetic methods, transforming organic chemistry and enabling the creation of complex molecules with precise structures.
Born in 1918
Organic chemist and Nobel laureate who developed a new way to synthesize complex molecules, revolutionizing the field of chemistry. His work led to the creation of new medicines and materials.
Born in 1917
Pioneering organic chemist who synthesized complex natural products and developed new methods, earning a Nobel Prize in Chemistry. His work revolutionized the field of organic chemistry.
Born in 1913
Developed the System of National Accounts, a framework for measuring economic activity, and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1984 for his work. His contributions revolutionized the way governments and organizations track and understand economic data.
88 Years Old
A Nobel Prize-winning chemist who pioneered the field of organic chemistry and introduced the concept of orbital symmetry, revolutionizing our understanding of chemical reactions.
Born in 1893
A pioneering scientist who discovered deuterium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen, and later contributed to the discovery of many other elements, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.
Born in 1912
A renowned chemist and academic who discovered and isolated ten transuranic elements, including plutonium, and was a leading figure in the development of nuclear energy. His work had a profound impact on our understanding of the periodic table and the properties of atomic nuclei.