Alexander Parkes

Alexander Parkes was a British inventor and chemist known for his pioneering work in developing the first synthetic plastic, called Parkesine, in the mid-19th century. He demonstrated how material derived from natural substances like cellulose could be treated with chemicals to create a malleable, durable product. Parkesine was a precursor to modern plastics and opened the door for the industrial production of synthetic materials. Parkes' innovations had a profound impact on manufacturing and design, leading to the widespread use of plastics in countless applications today, shaping both industry and everyday life.