Quick Facts
Biography
Charles August Kraus (August 15, 1875 – June 27, 1967) was an American chemist. He was professor of chemistry and director of the chemical laboratories at Clark University, where he directed the Chemical Warfare Service during World War I.
Later, he became professor of chemistry and director of the chemical laboratories at Brown University, and was a consultant to the Manhattan Project to develop the atomic bomb. His research contributed to the development of the ultraviolet lamp, to pyrex, and to the production of ethyl gasoline (a leaded gasoline). He investigated the electrical conductance of liquid ammonia alkaly metal solutions contributing to the development of the concept of solvated electron. He published more than 225 research papers.
He was a member of the National Academy of Sciences.
Awards
He was awarded several medals from the American Chemical Society, including the Priestley Medal in 1950. He was awarded the Franklin Medal in 1938, the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award in 1948, and the Willard Gibbs Award in 1935.