Abstract

This event commemorates the 100th anniversary of the beginning of WWI .

Michael Freemantle will describe how “The Great War” was a Chemists’ War. Chemistry underpinned military strategy and determined the shape, duration and outcome of the First World War. Chemistry was not only a destructive instrument of war but also protected troops, and healed the sick and wounded. From bullets to bombs, poison gases to anaesthetics, khaki to cordite, Chemistry played a pivotal role in the trenches, in the casualty clearing stations and military hospitals, in the tunnelling operations in the air, and at sea.

Dr Michael Freemantle is a professional science writer. His book of the same title was published in 2012. Signed copies will be available on the night.

N.B. ”Gas, GAS , Quick, boys!” is a line from Wilfred Owen’s poem, Dulce et Decorum Est.

Free admission. Open to the public. Suitable for GCSE students. No tickets, so arrive early to get a good seat.

Event organised by SCI Cambridge & Great Eastern Region, RSC Mid-Anglia Section & Cambridge University ChemSoc.

Please contact John O’Toole if you have any questions.