Malcolm Renfrew facts for kids

Malcolm MacKenzie Renfrew (born October 12, 1910 – died October 12, 2013) was an American chemist and inventor. He was a special kind of chemist who studied polymers, which are like long chains of tiny molecules. He also taught at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho. The chemistry building there, Renfrew Hall, was named after him in 1985.

Malcolm Renfrew is famous for his work on Teflon. He helped develop how Teflon could be made for everyday use. In 1946, he even spoke for the DuPont company when Teflon was first announced to the public.

Early Life and Education

Malcolm Renfrew was born in Spokane, Washington. He was the older of two sons. His family moved a few times when he was young, first to Colfax and then to Potlatch in 1923.

He finished high school in Potlatch in 1928. Then, he went to the University of Idaho in nearby Moscow. At first, he was interested in journalism and wrote for the student newspaper. But he soon changed his mind and decided to study chemistry. He earned his first degree in chemistry in 1932 and a master's degree in 1934. To continue his studies, he moved to the Midwest. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in 1938.

Working with Chemistry

After finishing his studies, Renfrew started working for the DuPont company in New Jersey. While there, he helped create many new things. He worked on materials for tooth repair and also on epoxy resins, which are strong glues.

Most importantly, he found a way to make Teflon ready for everyday use. Teflon was actually discovered by accident in 1938 by another DuPont chemist, Roy Plunkett. It was a side product from research on chlorofluorocarbons, which were used in refrigerators. Renfrew's work made it possible to produce Teflon for things like non-stick pans.

Later, Renfrew worked for other companies before returning to the University of Idaho in 1959. He became the head of the Physical Science Department. In 1967, this department split into separate physics and chemistry departments. Renfrew led the Chemistry Department until 1973. He retired in 1976 but continued to be a respected professor.

Awards and Recognition

Malcolm Renfrew received many honors for his work. In 1976, he became a Fellow of the American Chemical Society. He was well-known for his research and for teaching others about chemical safety. The American Chemical Society gave him an award in 1985 for his writings on chemical safety. In 2006, he received another award for being a great science communicator.

Renfrew was also a talented artist. He painted with watercolors, and his artwork was even shown in Moscow City Hall. On his 100th birthday, October 12, 2010, the Governor of Idaho declared it "Malcolm M. Renfrew Day." Part of the celebration included renaming the chemistry building at the University of Idaho "Renfrew Hall" in his honor. It had been named for him 25 years earlier, in 1985.

Personal Life

In 1938, Malcolm Renfrew married Carol Joy Campbell. She was also a graduate of the University of Idaho. They were married for over 71 years.

Renfrew was an active member of his church. He was also a talented watercolorist and played the trombone. He enjoyed playing in local bands, including the "Hog Heaven Big Band."

Malcolm Renfrew passed away in Moscow on October 12, 2013, which was his 103rd birthday. His mother lived to be 98, and his younger brother, who was also a chemist, lived to be 95.