Harold Shechter, Chemistry

Harold Shechter (1921- 2006) was a professor of chemistry at The Ohio State University. Shechter studied the chemistry of aliphatic nitro compounds, which are energy rich materials that burn quickly without oxygen at high altitudes. This discovery was used by the U.S. military in its jets and rockets and led to additional research in the area of missile propulsion and space travel.

Shechter was awarded the Navy Meritorious Public Service Citation, one of its top civilian honors, for his research. He also received the Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching in 1964-1965.