The Inventor of Celluloid Plastic: John Wesley Hyatt

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Plastic plays a vital role in the world's industries. Beyond daily use, it is widely used to make equipment for various businesses. Today, plastic has largely replaced wood and metal; everything from furniture to toys is made from different types of plastic.

Celluloid plastic is known for being hard and durable. It is used to make furniture, sports equipment, and household items. It was invented by John Wesley Hyatt. Interestingly, Hyatt made about 200 inventions, including ball bearings and the "Hyatt Filter" for purifying water.

• Early Life: John Wesley was born on November 28, 1837, in Starkey, New York. He did not have much formal education. At age 15, he began working for a toy company in Illinois that made chessboards and chess pieces.

• The Invention: Back then, chess pieces were made of expensive ivory. Hyatt wanted to find a cheaper, tougher alternative. He studied the soft plastic invented by Alexander Parkes in England and improved it to create hard Celluloid.

• Success: This new material would melt when heated and turn very hard once it cooled into a shape. In 1869, he officially named it "Celluloid." Soon, combs, musical instruments, and sports balls were all being made from it instead of ivory.

• Legacy: Hyatt was awarded the Perkin Medal in 1914 for his contribution. He passed away on May 10, 1920.