The event “200 Years of Benzene” was held today at the Carlos Santamaria Centre (EHU), marking two centuries since Michael Faraday’s discovery of benzene, a fundamental milestone that has shaped modern chemistry and materials science.

The session, chaired by Professor Aurelio Mateo-Alonso (POLYMAT / EHU / Ikerbasque), brought together leading experts who explored the legacy of benzene and its influence on contemporary scientific advances, from aromatic structures to the development of novel materials such as graphene.

Programme of speakers:
Nazario Martín (Universidad Complutense de Madrid / IMDEA Nanociencia), The Legacy of Benzene: From Aromatic Structure to the 2D Universe
Amaia Zurutuza (Graphenea), From Benzene to Graphene
Fernando Cossío (DIPC / EHU), Benzene and Beyond: Molecules and Chemical Change
Martina Corso (CSIC / CFM), Bond-Resolved Imaging of Benzenoid and Graphene Nanostructures

A networking coffee break offered participants an opportunity to exchange ideas and foster collaboration across research fields, underlining the enduring relevance of benzene in science and innovation.

Special thanks are extended to the Faculty of Chemistry (EHU), RSEQ, GEQOR, GENMM and The European Innovation Council for their support in making this celebration possible.