Thomas Midgley Jr.

Thomas Midgley Jr. was an American engineer and inventor known for developing two significant chemicals: leaded gasoline and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). His work initially aimed to improve engines and refrigeration but had unintended harmful environmental and health consequences. Leaded gasoline caused widespread lead poisoning, affecting human health, while CFCs damaged the ozone layer, increasing UV radiation exposure. Midgley’s contributions highlight how technological advances can have lasting negative impacts, emphasizing the importance of considering long-term effects in innovation.