Dolosse, used to protect harbour’s the world over. Image X/Twitter
Five South African inventors who deserve more recognition
Discover five lesser-known South African inventors whose groundbreaking creations have made a lasting impact on the world.
Dolosse, used to protect harbour’s the world over. Image X/Twitter
South Africa has a rich history of innovation, with many inventors making significant contributions that have changed the world. While some, like Chris Barnard who performed the first heart transplant, are well-known, there are several lesser-known South African inventors whose creations have made a lasting impact. Let’s explore five of these unsung heroes:
Selig Percy Amoils: Inventor of the Retinal Cryoprobe
Percy Amoils, a South African ophthalmologist, invented the retinal cryoprobe in 1965. He worked at Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto at the time. This groundbreaking surgical tool uses extreme cold to treat retinal detachments and cataracts.
Amoils’ invention revolutionized cryosurgery and has restored sight for countless patients worldwide.
Dolosse: Eric Merrifield’s Concrete Marvels
Have you ever wondered about those huge, oddly shaped concrete blocks used in harbours? Those are dolosse, invented by South African Eric Merrifield in the 1960s to protect harbour walls and coastal structures from erosion.
Weighing up to 20 tons each, the dolos’ complex geometric shape deflects wave energy sideways, preventing dislodging. This South African invention is now used in waterfronts worldwide to shield against the ocean’s power.
Vivian Alberts: Developer of Economical Solar Power
Vivian Alberts, a physicist from the University of Johannesburg, developed a thin-film solar power technology in 2005. His invention drastically reduced the cost of solar energy in South Africa.
His micro-thin metallic film made solar electricity five times cheaper. Consequently, renewable energy became more accessible and affordable for communities across the country.
George Pratley: Creator of the Famous Pratley Putty
In 1960, South African engineer George Pratley invented Pratley Putty. He was trying to develop an insulating and sealing compound for electrical boxes. This incredibly strong adhesive was even used by NASA during the Apollo 11 moon landing mission in 1969.
They used it to hold parts of the Eagle landing craft together. Today, Pratley Putty remains a popular and versatile product.
Q20 Inventor Mr. Robertson: The Unsung Hero Behind the Multipurpose Lubricant
In 1950, a relatively unknown inventor from Pinetown named Mr. Robertson developed the iconic Q20 lubricant spray. He originally created it to displace water from the distributor caps of the VW Beetle.
However, Q20 quickly became an indispensable multipurpose solution. People use it for rust prevention, lubricating hinges, and loosening seized bolts. Despite its global popularity, Robertson remains a lesser-known South African inventor.
These five remarkable inventors showcase South Africa’s spirit of innovation and problem-solving. Although their names may not be as recognizable as some of their counterparts, their contributions have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on various industries and improved countless lives. By celebra
ting these lesser-known South African inventors, we honour the country’s rich heritage of ingenuity and its ongoing potential to change the world through groundbreaking inventions and practical solutions.
