Author Description

This boxed set of two volumes is an account of the development of the structure and policies of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) over the past 80 years as it has strived to meet its goals. Since its creation in 1919, IUPAC's main objective has been to contribute to the advancement of all aspects of pure and applied chemistry. The first volume charts the history of the Union from its inception to 1987; the second covers the most recent period in which the Union underwent a number changes to become a contemporary body, both in its mode of action and function. These two volumes are not a history of the science of chemistry, but rather show how IUPAC has adapted to the changing needs of the worldwide chemistry community. The authors, who have been involved with the Union in several capacities, describe, inter alia, IUPAC's work in the areas of nomenclature, symbols, terminology, standards, symposia, and publications. Throughout the text, the importance of IUPAC is emphasized as a focus for communication and collaboration among chemists from among the worldwide academic and industrial communities. Part 1, 1919-1987 by Roger Fennell Part 2, 1988-1999 by Stanley S. Brown