Eli Ruckenstein

University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York ~Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering. Made contributions in catalysis, transport phenomena, nucleation theory, interfacial science, and polymer science. Major figure in the development of the modern theory of transport phenomena, especially through physical models of turbulent mass transfer and algebraic method. Derived the first truly kinetic theory of nucleation. In catalysis, brought scientific principles to bear on the sintering and redispersion of supported metal catalysts; pioneered catalytic combustion with mixed-oxide catalysts; identified metal oxides that do not lead to NO production; developed catalysts for CO2 reforming of CH4; suggested a mechanism for the catalytic oxidation by mixed oxides; and proposed a kinetics of catalytic processes that involves a spectrum of landing areas. Contributions to colloid and interface science that are at the core of our modern understanding of complex fluids include theories of hydration, hydrophobic attractions, and steric repulsions; the thermodynamics of microemulsions, wetting, aggregation, and solubilization; the global phase behavior of colloidal suspensions containing polymer additives; and the theory of the stability of molecularly thin films. Developed the method of polymerization in concentrated emulsions. Recipient of the National Medal of Science (1998).~