Innovation Histories

Johnson Matthey has a long history of inventing, developing and commercialising innovative products and technologies. Find out more about the stories behind some of our most significant discoveries

Autocatalysts – A Major Contribution to Clean AirAutocatalysts – A Major Contribution to Clean Air

Autocatalysts – A Major Contribution to Clean Air

Since the first autocatalyst rolled off the production line at Johnson Matthey’s plant in Royston, UK in 1974, this technology has prevented many millions of tonnes of harmful pollutants from entering our air

The Continuously Regenerating TrapThe Continuously Regenerating Trap

The Continuously Regenerating Trap

Award winning technology for controlling diesel vehicle pollution

Making our Mark in MethanolMaking our Mark in Methanol

Making our Mark in Methanol

Today's methanol industry is based on technology first developed in the 1960s and the latest process and catalyst know how now resides with Johnson Matthey

Carboplatin – Platinum Chemistry for Fighting CancerCarboplatin – Platinum Chemistry for Fighting Cancer

Carboplatin – Platinum Chemistry for Fighting Cancer

Johnson Matthey has played an important role in the development of platinum based drugs, such as cisplatin and carboplatin, which are used for the chemotherapy treatment of cancers

Bitrex® – ‘Bitter’ to be Safe than SorryBitrex® – ‘Bitter’ to be Safe than Sorry

Bitrex® – ‘Bitter’ to be Safe than Sorry

Bitrex®, the world’s bitterest substance, is the leading branded safety ingredient used in a variety of domestic and industrial applications. Discovered in 1958 at Johnson Matthey’s Macfarlan Smith business in Edinburgh, UK, it is one in a long line of novel discoveries pioneered by the company in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals fields

© Johnson Matthey 2013