Edward Zubler, 79; Research Chemist Helped Develop Halogen Lamp at GE

Edward G. Zubler, a research chemist who developed the halogen lamp in 1959, has died. He was 79.

Zubler died Saturday at University Hospitals in Cleveland while recovering from surgery for a herniated disc, said his daughter, Rena Flovin.

Zubler began experimenting with halogen lighting technology when he joined General Electric Co.’s lighting research laboratory in 1953.

“I was assigned to the project and told, ‘See what’s going on; see what’s making it work or not work,’ ” Zubler told the Smithsonian Institution, which lists his work among 20th century inventions.

Frederick Mosby later joined Zubler on the halogen project.

By adding a halogen gas, Zubler improved on standard incandescent bulbs, which include a filament made of tungsten. In an incandescent lightbulb, chemical reactions with the tungsten caused deposits to form inside and affected how much light could shine through.

Halogen eliminated the particles, recycled the tungsten deposits and made for a longer-lasting lightbulb. Halogen lamps continue to be used for automobile headlights, floodlights, and stage and studio lighting.

Zubler earned numerous patents and awards for his work in advancing lighting technology.

GE honored him in 1973 for his contributions to the science and technology of halogen lamps.

A native of Lackawanna, N.Y., Zubler served as a combat medic in the Army during World War II.

He received a Purple Heart after being wounded in battle, and twice received the Bronze Star Medal for valor.

After the war, he earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Canisius College in Buffalo, N.Y.

He later earned a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Notre Dame.

He is survived by his wife, Marybelle; a brother; a son; two daughters; and six grandchildren.