Did you know these nine cool inventions are South African?

[Nat Quinn]

South Africa may be known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, but it has also produced some remarkable inventions that have made a global impact. From groundbreaking medical advancements to practical everyday solutions, here are 9 cool inventions from South Africa that you may not have known about.

CAT SCAN

 Developed by physicist Allan Cormack and his associate Godfrey Hounsfield in Cape Town, the Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scan revolutionized medical imaging by providing detailed cross-sectional images of the body. This invention earned Cormack a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine.

CT SCAN. Image by Pexels

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OIL FROM COAL (SASOL)

 In response to limited oil reserves, the South African Coal Oil and Gas Corporation (Sasol) pioneered the production of oil from coal. This innovative technology remains the world’s largest oil-from-coal refinery and supplies 40% of South Africa’s fuel.

HEART TRANSPLANT

 Dr. Chris Barnard performed the world’s first successful heart transplant in Cape Town in 1967. This groundbreaking medical achievement propelled Barnard to international fame and paved the way for further advancements in organ transplantation.

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KREEPY KRAULY

 Ferdinand Chauvier, from Springs, invented the Kreepy Krauly, a swimming pool vacuum cleaner that revolutionized pool cleaning. Since its creation in 1974, this invention has made pool maintenance a breeze for many.

PRATLEY’S PUTTY

 George Pratley invented Pratley’s Putty while seeking a strong adhesive for electrical components. This versatile substance played a role in the success of the Apollo XI moon landing mission and continues to be widely used for various applications.

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DOLOSSE

 Designed by Eric Merrifield, Dolosse are large concrete blocks used to break up wave action and protect harbors and coastal installations. These distinctive structures have proven effective in coastal engineering.

Q20

 Invented by Mr. Robertson in Pinetown, Q20 was initially created to displace water from distributor caps on old VW Beetles. This versatile product became known for its rust-prevention properties and its ability to lubricate and loosen seized nuts and bolts.

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RETINAL CRYOPROBE

 Developed by Selig Percy Amoils, the retinal cryoprobe revolutionized cataract surgery by providing a new method for treatment. Amoils’ innovation gained international recognition and received a Queen’s Award for Technological Innovation.

SPEED GUN

 Invented by Henri Johnson in 1992, the Speed Gun accurately measures the speed and angles of fast-moving objects, particularly cricket and tennis balls. This invention has been a valuable tool in sports and beyond.

These remarkable inventions showcase the ingenuity and creativity of South Africans, proving that innovation knows no bounds. From healthcare to everyday convenience, these inventions have made a lasting impact on the world stage, improving lives and pushing boundaries.

 

source:Did you know these nine cool inventions are South African? (thesouthafrican.com)

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