Homer Burton Adkins
An American chemist whose pioneering work on hydrogenation unlocked new methods for transforming organic molecules.
1892–1949 (age 57)·American chemist·Birthday: January 16·The Lost Generation
Biography
Homer Burton Adkins was a central figure in the world of organic chemistry during the first half of the 20th century. Operating out of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, his laboratory became synonymous with the study of hydrogenation—the process of adding hydrogen to molecules. His meticulous research led to the development of 'Adkins' catalyst,' a specific copper-chromium oxide mixture that became a standard tool for chemists seeking to reduce carbonyl groups. His work had profound practical implications, influencing the production of everything from pharmaceuticals to industrial chemicals. During World War II, he lent his expertise to the nation's defense efforts, conducting research on chemical warfare agents. His influential textbook, 'Reactions of Hydrogen,' solidified his reputation as a defining authority in his field.
The Lost Generation
1883–1900
Came of age during World War I. Disillusioned by the carnage, they rejected the certainties of the Victorian era and built modernism from the wreckage — in art, literature, and politics.
Homer was born in 1892, placing them squarely in The Lost Generation. The events that shaped this generation — world wars, depression, and rapid industrialization — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Homer Was Born
The biggest hits of 1892
Homer's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1892Born
President: Benjamin Harrison
1897Started school
President: William McKinley
1905Became a teenager
Einstein publishes the theory of special relativity
President: Theodore Roosevelt
1908Could drive
Ford Model T goes into production
President: Theodore Roosevelt
1910Could vote
Halley's Comet makes its closest approach
President: William Howard Taft
1913Turned 21
The Federal Reserve is established
President: Woodrow Wilson
1922Turned 30
King Tut's tomb discovered in Egypt
President: Warren G. Harding"April Showers" — Al Jolson
1932Turned 40
Amelia Earhart flies solo across the Atlantic
Gas: $0.18/galPresident: Herbert Hoover"Night and Day" — Fred AstaireBest Picture: Grand Hotel
1942Turned 50
Battle of Midway turns the tide in the Pacific
Gas: $0.20/galHome: $3,175Min wage: $0.30/hrPresident: Franklin D. Roosevelt"White Christmas" — Bing CrosbyBest Picture: Mrs. Miniver
1949Died at 57
NATO founded; Mao proclaims the People's Republic of China
Gas: $0.27/galHome: $7,450Min wage: $0.40/hrPresident: Harry S. Truman"Riders in the Sky" — Vaughn MonroeBest Picture: All the King's Men
Key Achievements
- Developed 'Adkins' catalyst,' a copper-chromium oxide catalyst that became fundamental for the hydrogenation of organic compounds.
- Authored the authoritative text 'Reactions of Hydrogen with Organic Compounds,' which shaped a generation of chemists.
- Conducted significant wartime research for the United States government on chemical agents during World War II.
- Trained numerous graduate students who went on to become leading chemists in academia and industry.
Did You Know?
He was elected to the United States National Academy of Sciences in 1945.
He suffered from poor health in his later years, attributed in part to exposure to toxic substances during his wartime research.
The American Chemical Society presents an annual award named in his honor for outstanding work in organic chemistry.
“The catalyst must be specific for the reaction, and the reaction must be clean.”
