John Meurig Thomas was renowned for his work in the science of catalysts and solid state chemistry. The production chain of many modern materials and chemicals involves catalysts - substances that speed up chemical reactions, but use less energy and do not get used up themselves. John has led the way in developing 'green' catalysts to make chemical processes less polluting and more efficient.
John pioneered the use of technologies like electron microscopy and neutron diffraction to 'see' how minuscule surface features of catalysts affect chemical reactions. He has particular expertise in heterogeneous catalysts - ones that are in a different phase to the reacting chemicals, such as a solid material that catalyses reactions of liquids.
John is a former director of the Royal Institution, a role that complemented his keen interest in popularising science. Amongst his many publications is a biography of Michael Faraday who made significant contributions to electromagnetism and electrochemistry and is one of the most influential British scientists in history. John was knighted in 1991 for his services to chemistry and science.
Sir John Meurig Thomas HonFREng FRS died on 13 November 2020.
Subject groups
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Chemistry
Chemistry, physical, Chemistry, materials
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Other
Public understanding of science
Awards
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Bakerian Medal and Lecture
On 'New microcrystalline catalysts'.
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Davy Medal
For his pioneering studies of solid-state chemistry, and for the major advances he has made in the design of new materials for heterogeneous catalysis.
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Rutherford Memorial Lecture
Given in New Zealand.
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Royal Medal
For his pioneering work within catalytic chemistry, in particular on single-site heterogeneous catalysts, which have had a major impact on green chemistry, clean technology and sustainability.
