“Even in this multidisciplinary age, the individual investigator is crucial, the creative process heroic and inspiring,” said Eli Pearce, president of the American Chemical Society. “Those who initially probe the unknown alone will ultimately serve as catalysts for development of the products, materials and technologies that advance civilization in the 21st century.”
Fung’s research has enabled petroleum companies to capture and reuse expensive catalysts and pass millions of dollars in savings to consumers. Catalysts — substances that speed up the rate of chemical reactions — break down the large, heavy hydrocarbons found in oil into the smaller, lighter molecules of gasoline and other chemicals. Fung holds more than 50 U.S. patents, including 30 patents for his work with catalyst regeneration.
The American Chemical Society’s Industrial Innovation Awards recognize individuals and teams whose discoveries and inventions contribute to the commercial success of their companies and enhance our quality of life.
NOTE TO REPORTERS: The winners will present 20-minute talks about their work on Wednesday, May 29, from 2:30-5 p.m. If you would like to attend the awards banquet or presentations, please contact the person listed above.
Shun C. Fung, Ph.D., is a senior engineering associate at ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company. He received his B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1965 and his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois, Urbana, in 1969. He resides in Bridgewater, N.J.