Eugene Houdry

Eugene Houdry was a French engineer and chemist known for his significant contributions to industrial chemistry, particularly in catalysis—the process of speeding up chemical reactions. In the 1930s, he developed catalysts that improved the refining of petroleum, enhancing the production of gasoline. His innovative work enabled the transformation of crude oil into valuable fuels more efficiently. Houdry's pioneering methods laid the groundwork for advancements in chemical engineering and are still influential in modern industrial processes, contributing to cleaner and more efficient energy production.