baekeland

< /ˈli oʊ ˈhɛn drɪk; Flemish ˈleɪ oʊ ˈhɛn drɪk/, 1863–1944, U.S. chemist, born in Belgium: developed Bakelite.

1. Belgian-born American chemist who in 1907 developed Bakelite, the first plastic to harden permanently after heating. Originally used as an insulator, his invention proved to be a versatile and inexpensive material for manufacturing products such as telephones, cameras, and furniture.