Ghanaian fibre optic inventor Dr. Owusu is dead

Dr. Thomas Owusu Mensah, the Ghanaian-American Chemical Engineer who played a key role in advancing fiber optic technology has died. He died on March 27,2024 at Catholic Hope Exchange Hospital in Kumasi in Ashanti Region of Ghana after short illness a statement issued by family source said.

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Thomas Owusu Mensah was a Ghanaian-American chemical engineer and inventor known for his contributions to fiber optic manufacturing and nanotechnology. Throughout his career, he held 14 patents and was recognized for his innovations by being inducted into the US National Academy of Inventors in 2015. In addition, Mensah served as Editor-in-Chief of the textbook Nanotechnology Commercialization published by John Wiley & Sons in 2017. Unfortunately, Mensah passed away on March 27, 2024, at the age of 74.

During his time at Air Products and Chemicals from 1980 to 1983, Mensah began to make a significant impact in fiber optics research. He later joined Corning Glass Works in 1983 and played a crucial role in improving the manufacturing process of optical fiber, making it more cost-effective and efficient.

Subsequently, Mensah moved to Bell Laboratories in 1986 where he led a program to develop advanced laser-guided weapons for the US Department of Defense guided missile program, significantly enhancing missile capabilities.

Mensah’s leadership extended beyond technological advancements as he held leadership positions in various organizations, including serving on the board of the AIChE National Board of Directors and the AIChE Foundation. He also worked towards building a “Silicon Valley of the South” in Texas starting from early 2016.