#9: An Idea That Stuck
In 1938, Roy J. Plunkett stumbled upon an unexpected discovery while trying to advance refrigeration technology at Dupont. After noting an irregular weight in a pressure bottle that refused to empty, Plunkett’s curiosity led him to open it, revealing a white, waxy substance. This was a pivotal moment, as Plunkett uncovered a new material without searching for it.
By 1945, DuPont had officially introduced the world to Teflon, a name now synonymous with resistance to extreme temperatures. This invention catapulted Plunkett to fame and paved the way for Teflon to become a household staple. Today, over four hundred million pounds of Teflon are produced annually, primarily fueling the demand for non-stick cookware, a modern kitchen essential admired globally.