This is the remarkable story of an entrepreneurial firm that helped to create the petrochemical industry as we know it today. The author also highlights the important role chemical engineers played in developing and commercializing new technologies based on the conversion of hydrocarbons into petrochemicals, which also led to the transfer of technological dominance from Germany to the United States. These developments are illustrated by the participants' personal histories, in the form of interviews and recorded oral histories. In addition, the book presents a highly relevant case study for engineers and managers in the chemical industry.

The global industry is poised for change

Fuels and Chemicals Research help win World War II
Three entrepreneurs join forces
Conditions are perfect: A new industry grows rapidly
Scientific Design becomes successful
The big breakthrough: Mid Century Process
More inventions: Nylon intermediates, Isoprene, Propylene Oxide
Other firms: A period of breakthrough inventions
The leading engineering firm for petrochemicals
Oxirane and the formation of Halcon International
A reach too far
An Ending
Epilogue.