Prof. Dr. Dietrich Fengel passed away

Prof. Dr. Dietrich Fengel passed away on 14.11.2021 at the age of 90. He worked for more than 31 years as a scientist and university lecturer in the field of electron microscopy and cell wall chemistry at the Institute of Wood Research and Wood Technology (now Holzforschung München) and contributed significantly to the national and international reputation of Munich wood research with his groundbreaking scientific contributions. The monograph "Wood - Chemistry, Ultrastructure, Reactions", published by Dietrich Fengel together with co-author Gerd Wegener in 1984, still serves as an indispensable reference book for students and scientists worldwide. After his retirement in 1994, Dietrich Fengel moved back to his home region of southern Hesse and spent fulfilling years with his wife, a large circle of friends and his diverse cultural interests.

Klaus Richter

I think back with great gratitude to the 25 years of professional collaboration, which was always based on appreciation, respect and trust, and which made us friends. It was Dietrich Fengel who introduced me to scientific thinking and work. From 1970 onwards I was his first research assistant and doctoral student, and his great expertise in electron microscopy and solid chemical knowledge got me excited early on about the unexplored questions of fine structures and the chemical components of wood.

For more than 30 years, Dietrich Fengel and his working group enriched the life of our institute and helped shaping the international reputation of Wood Research Munich. He will continue to have an impact on future wood and materials scientists through his work.

Gerd Wegener, December 2021