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Memorial Tributes Volume 21 (2017) / Chapter Skim
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JAMES D. IDOL, JR.
Pages 172-177

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From page 173...
... In 1957 he invented an economical single-step process for the manufacture of acrylonitrile, the key ingredient in acrylic fibers used to make clothing; shatter-proof plastic bottles, computer, automobile, and food casings; and sports equipment. The process was commercialized in 1960 by Sohio and is now used in chemical plants throughout the world.
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From page 174...
... , Research and Development Council; Industrial Research Institute, chair, Board of Editors; American Institute of Chemists, chair of the board; and member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Society of Plastics Engineers, and the Plastics Industry Association. He served on numerous government committees and councils including the National Science Foundation Council for Chemical Research Government Affairs Committee and the advisory board for the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
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From page 175...
... . ACS designated the Sohio Acrylonitrile Process a National Historic Chemical Landmark at BP Chemicals Inc.
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From page 176...
... His brother-in-law, Hale Montgomery, remembers: Growing up in Harrisonville, Missouri, on the western edge of the state, Jim showed early signs of his later illustrious career in chemistry. According to family history, Jim spent many hours with a beginner's chemistry set -- a childhood birthday gift from a neighbor -- in the basement of the Idol home on West Washington St., a house sometimes filled with strange odors from below.
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From page 177...
... " I laughed and said, "No you're just my famous gorilla chemistry uncle! " His niece Anne commented: As a girl, I thought Uncle Jim was hilarious.
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  • gorilla chemistry
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  • ashland chemical
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