Tony Thornton received both his B.S. degree in Chemistry (cum laude) and his M.S. degree in Analytical Chemistry from Emory University in Atlanta, in 1980. Tony’s research at Emory involved liquid chromatography, specifically the use of ion-pair chromatography and isocratic separation of catecholamines and metabolites. His work supported early research into potential treatment of Parkinson’s disease between Emory and the Veterans Administration hospital in Atlanta.
Tony has been a key member of the Micromeritics team since 1980, specifically evolving the study of particle sizing using liquid chromatography. Tony was also instrumental in developing the SediGraph, DigiSizer, and Elzone, and has made significant contributions to development of products for particle size, physisorption, chemisorption and pycnometer product lines. Most recently, Tony was the recipient of the ASTM International 2021 Cavanaugh Award. He was recognized for outstanding promulgation of standard test methods for powder characterization and for masterful leadership in international standards development organizations.