Fritz Hofmann (chemist)

Fritz Hofmann (August 2, 1866 – April 23, 1956) was a German chemist best known for synthesizing the first synthetic rubber (methyl rubber) in 1909.

Hofmann received his doctorate from the University of Rostock in 1892. He joined Bayer AG in 1895, working in the research laboratories in Elberfeld. It was there that he made his pivotal discovery.

Hofmann's research also included the synthesis of isoprene, a key monomer in natural rubber. He recognized the potential of polymerizing isoprene and similar molecules to create synthetic rubber substitutes. After considerable experimentation, he successfully polymerized dimethylbutadiene to produce methyl rubber. This breakthrough was a crucial development in the field of polymer chemistry and provided Germany with an alternative rubber source during times of limited access to natural rubber.

Beyond rubber synthesis, Hofmann contributed to other areas of organic chemistry. He registered numerous patents related to his research. His work laid important groundwork for the later development of improved synthetic rubber materials such as Buna rubber.