A History of Sweat Science, Followed by a Detour to Science behind the Berlin Wall

Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Place: 6th Floor Conference Room, Chemical Heritage Foundation

Information: 215-873-8289 or bbl@chemheritage.org

Humans sweat in copious amounts, but most of us do our best to pretend we don't perspire at all. Everts is working on a book on the science and culture of sweat and is currently researching the historical component of the book at CHF. Come and find out about the "sweate" epidemics that killed thousands in England during the 14th and 15th centuries, or the 16th-century medical researcher Santorius Santorius, who religiously measured his perspiration (among other bodily fluids) as part of his intricate weight-control strategies.

Everts will also segue to another topic close to her heart: chemistry behind the Berlin Wall. This year marks the 50th anniversary of its construction. Hear how scientists worked behind it.