The First Major Invention: The Mid Century Process

Abstract

SD had, from the beginning, identified polyester fiber raw materials as an area where innovation might be possible. The target was terephthalic acid (TPA), which DuPont and others had not been able to synthesize directly. Creative research and development by SD’s chemists and chemical engineers results in the successful, very high yield oxidation of p-xylene to TPA. SD looks for a development partner and contacts Amoco Chemical Company. This eventually leads to Amoco’s buyout of this technology, which also had other interesting chemical applications. SD receives a substantial lump sum payment and keeps certain foreign licensing rights. Amoco builds the first plant and then a number of others in the U.S. and abroad, partly in joint ventures, with excellent financial results.