Hermann Schlenk

Hermann Schlenk was a German chemist known for his work in organic chemistry, particularly in developing techniques to handle and study highly reactive chemicals. He invented the Schlenk line, a specialized apparatus that allows chemists to carry out reactions under inert atmospheres like nitrogen or argon, preventing sensitive substances from reacting with air or moisture. This innovation has become essential in modern chemistry labs for working with air- or moisture-sensitive compounds. Schlenk's contributions significantly advanced research in organometallic chemistry and the safe manipulation of reactive substances.