The Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry (I&ECR) named the paper among its 15 most-cited over the last 106 years.

The paper, titled “New Reference Equation of State for Associating Liquids” describes the Statistical Associating Fluid Theory (SAFT) approach which is a widely used and robust molecular model for phase equilibrium calculations of fluid mixtures. It allows us to precisely represent the properties and the performance of a range of liquid mixtures including solutions of polymers and surfactants.

The SAFT model was developed in 1990 by Professor George Jackson in collaboration with Walter Chapman now at Rice University, Maciej Radosz from the University of Wyoming and Keith Gubbins from North Caroline State University. It is based on the forces that exist between small molecules and monomeric building blocks of polymer chains, and helps to predict the effects of changes in the thermodynamic conditions, applying heat or compression to the bulk material. It also makes it possible to study systems with varying degrees of polarity like hydrocarbons and surfactants. Due to its accuracy, versatility and firm theoretical foundation, SAFT is rapidly supplanting traditional chemical engineering equations of state. This research now represents one of the most sophisticated and successful theories for complex fluids in industrial applications.

Since its development in 1990, the SAFT approach has undergone further modifications and improvements in the form of SAFT-VR and PC-SAFT. Professor Jackson himself is also using the SAFT approach in his current research in molecular systems engineering by integrating SAFT with process modelling and design methods to produce novel solvents and mixtures for the optimal sequestration of CO2 and other pollutants, representing a big step forward.

This year, Professor Jackson was also awarded the inaugural Guggenheim Medal from the Institute of Chemical Engineers for his contributions to the field of thermodynamics.

Professor Jackson’s paper was part of the Virtual Special Issue of I&ECR Journal. The special issue was released to highlight the evolving focus of chemical engineering over the past century since the launch of the journal in 1909. The inclusion of his paper among the most-cited of all time is a testament to Professor Jackson's significant contributions to the field of thermodynamics and chemical engineering and we wish him all the best for the future.