Blog

Stephanie Kwolek: Biography, Achievements & Lasting Legacy

Stephanie Louise Kwolek (; July 31, 1923 – June 18, 2014) was an American chemist known for inventing Kevlar (poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide). Her career at the DuPont company spanned more than 40 years.

For her discovery, Kwolek was awarded the DuPont company's Lavoisier Medal for outstanding technical achievement. Before 2021, she was the only female employee to have received that honor. In 1995 she became the fourth woman to be added to the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Kwolek won numerous awards for her work in polymer chemistry, including the National Medal of Technology, the IRI Achievement Award and the Perkin Medal.

Key Facts

Legacy and Impact

The influence of Stephanie Kwolek extends far beyond her own lifetime. She fundamentally shaped our understanding of the natural world, and her discoveries and theories remain foundational to this day.

Though she passed away in 2014, her ideas continue to be studied, debated, and built upon by scholars and practitioners worldwide.

免费测试
你的是多少?

二十道题、八分钟计时,以及与所有参与者对比得出的百分位。无需注册。

开始智商测试 →

Stephanie Kwolek remains one of the most celebrated minds to emerge from United States, a testament to the rich intellectual heritage of the region.

Notable Geniuses from United States

United States has produced many remarkable minds. Alongside Stephanie Kwolek:

View all geniuses from United States →

Discover more brilliant minds in Science

Explore Science Geniuses

Explore More

Read the full profile of Stephanie Kwolek

View Stephanie Kwolek's Profile →

Explore more geniuses

1,300+ articles · 1,300+ biographies · English

Browse all