Otto Wichterle (27 October 1913 – 18 August 1998) was a renowned Czech chemist and inventor whose pioneering work in the field of polymer chemistry and the invention of soft contact lenses revolutionized ophthalmology and eye care. His life and contributions have had a lasting impact on science and vision correction.
Early Life & Career
Otto Wichterle was born on October 27, 1913, in Prostějov, Moravia, which is now part of the Czech Republic. He showed an early aptitude for science and chemistry, and his academic journey took him to the Masaryk University in Brno and later to Prague’s Charles University, where he obtained his doctorate in organic chemistry.
Wichterle’s career was marked by groundbreaking innovations in the field of chemistry and polymer science.
- Polymer Chemistry: Wichterle’s significant contributions to polymer chemistry were centered around hydrogels, a type of water-absorbing polymer. In the 1950s, he developed a new hydrogel called hydrophilic gels, which became the foundation for soft contact lenses. This invention addressed the discomfort associated with hard contact lenses and transformed the field of ophthalmology.
- Invention of Soft Contact Lenses: In 1961, Otto Wichterle and his colleague Drahoslav Lim developed the first soft contact lenses using their hydrogel material. Soft contact lenses were more comfortable and safer for the eyes compared to hard lenses, opening up new possibilities for vision correction and eye health.
- Academic Contributions: Beyond his inventions, Wichterle had a distinguished academic career. He was a professor at the Institute of Chemical Technology in Prague and made significant contributions to the understanding of polymerization processes, especially in the development of hydrogels and their applications.
Otto Wichterle passed away on August 18, 1998, leaving behind a rich scientific legacy. His inventions and research continue to influence ophthalmology and polymer chemistry, and soft contact lenses remain a testament to his innovative spirit.
Legacy and Awards
Otto Wichterle’s contributions to science and ophthalmology have left a lasting legacy:
- Medical Advancements: His invention of soft contact lenses significantly improved the lives of people with vision problems. Soft contact lenses quickly gained worldwide recognition for their comfort and safety, making them an essential tool in vision correction.
- Awards and Honors: Otto Wichterle received numerous awards for his achievements. Notably, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and received the prestigious Perkin Medal in 1994, recognizing his exceptional work in polymer chemistry.
Otto Wichterle’s work exemplifies the power of scientific innovation to improve lives and enhance human understanding. His groundbreaking contributions to soft contact lenses have had a profound impact on vision correction and continue to benefit countless individuals worldwide.
On 27 October 2021, a Google Doodle was created to celebrate Otto Wichterle’s 108th Birthday.
