Jānis Matulis

Jānis Matulis (born July 16, 1911, in Daugavpils, Latvia, died June 15, 1993, in Riga, Latvia) was a prominent Latvian chemist specializing in polymer chemistry and electrochemistry. He is best known for his work on polymer coatings, the electrodeposition of polymers, and corrosion inhibition.

Matulis received his doctorate from the University of Latvia in 1944. He dedicated his career to research and education at the Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Technology of the Latvian Academy of Sciences (later the Institute of Polymer Mechanics). He served as the director of the Institute from 1946 to 1984.

His research significantly contributed to the development of new methods for creating polymer coatings with improved properties, including enhanced corrosion resistance. He also explored the mechanisms of electrochemical polymerization and the application of polymers in preventing metal corrosion.

Matulis authored numerous scientific publications, including monographs and articles, which significantly advanced the field of polymer electrochemistry. He supervised many doctoral and postgraduate students, fostering a generation of Latvian chemists. He was a member of the Latvian Academy of Sciences and received several awards for his scientific achievements. His work had a lasting impact on the development of polymer chemistry and materials science in Latvia and beyond.