Katharine Blodgett - The Pioneer Behind Invisible Glass

Have you ever wondered how your windows can be kept so clear and clean? The answer lies in a remarkable invention brought to us by Katharine Blodgett, a pioneer in the field of chemistry. Blodgett's invention, known as invisible glass, has revolutionized the way we view the world through our windows.

The Early Life of Katharine Blodgett

Katharine Burr Blodgett was born on January 10, 1898, in Schenectady, New York. She grew up in a family that valued education and encouraged her to pursue her interests in science. Blodgett attended Bryn Mawr College, where she studied physics and mathematics.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Blodgett pursued a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Cambridge. During her time in Cambridge, she worked under the supervision of renowned physicist Ernest Rutherford, who greatly influenced her scientific career.

Katharine Blodgett and Invisible Glass (21st Century Junior Library: Women Innovators)

by Darcy Pattison (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4503 KB
Print length	:	24 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Invention of Invisible Glass

Blodgett's most significant contribution to the scientific world was her invention of invisible glass. Her breakthrough came in 1935 when she discovered a way to create a thin, transparent film that could be applied to glass surfaces. This film eliminated glare and reflections, making the glass essentially invisible.

Blodgett's invention had a wide range of applications. It greatly improved the visibility of car windshields, camera lenses, and even eyeglasses. The film also had a self-cleaning property, making windows easier to maintain and clean.

The Impact of Invisible Glass

The invention of invisible glass revolutionized various industries and forever changed the way we interact with glass surfaces. It enhanced our ability to see through car windshields, improving road safety. It also made photography and cinematography more precise by reducing unwanted reflections and glare.

Additionally, Blodgett's invention had significant implications for the field of optics. The thin film technology she developed paved the way for numerous advancements, including anti-reflective coatings used in modern microscopes, telescopes, and eyeglasses.

Katharine Blodgett's Legacy

Katharine Blodgett's contributions to the field of science were widely recognized, and she received several prestigious awards throughout her career. In 1951, she became the first female recipient of the American Chemical Society's Francis P. Garvan Medal. She was also inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2008.

Blodgett's work continues to inspire scientists and inventors to this day. Her dedication to improving the clarity of glass surfaces has transformed multiple industries and greatly enhanced our daily lives.

Katharine Blodgett's remarkable invention of invisible glass has left an indelible mark on the world. Her pioneering work in the field of chemistry has improved the visibility of various glass surfaces, making them virtually invisible to the naked eye. Blodgett's inventive spirit and dedication to scientific progress continue to inspire generations of scientists and inventors. We owe a debt of gratitude to Katharine Blodgett for allowing us to see the world more clearly through invisible glass.

Katharine Blodgett and Invisible Glass (21st Century Junior Library: Women Innovators)

by Darcy Pattison (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4503 KB
Print length	:	24 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The 21st Century Junior Library Women Innovators series highlights the contributions of women to STEM fields. Katharine Blodgett and Invisible Glass examines the life of this important woman and her contributions to industrial chemistry. Sidebars encourage readers to engage in the material by asking deeper questions or conducting individual research. Full color photos, a glossary, and a listing of additional resources all enhance the learning experience.