Guy Gistau-Baguer, an iconic figure in the field of cryogenics, passed away August 25, 2024, leaving behind a significant scientific and technical legacy. Born on June 22, 1940, in Génos, France, he graduated from the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Métiers in 1963. His career was marked by an unwavering passion for innovation and research, making him a pioneer in cryogenics, particularly in the refrigeration and liquefaction of helium.
During his career at Air Liquide, Gistau-Baguer played a central role in developing technologies for very low-temperature helium refrigeration. From 1975 to 2000, he served as the technical manager of the Helium Refrigeration activity within the Advanced Technology Division in Grenoble. He oversaw the design and development of the first automatic helium refrigerator/liquefier, the HELIAL, in 1980. He also led the design, construction, and commissioning of several major refrigeration installations, including those used by CERN and the CEBAF project. These achievements set new standards in the field, with advances such as the integration of cryogenic centrifugal compressors.
Gistau-Baguer was a member of the International Cryogenic Engineering Committee (ICEC) for over two decades and served as its president from 1998 to 2008. He contributed significantly to the dissemination of knowledge as an advisory editor for the journal Cryogenics and authored numerous technical publications, including his reference work on helium refrigeration, which became an essential guide for professionals in the field.
His nine patents, some of which remain in use, stood as a testament to his innovative spirit. The advances he introduced significantly improved the efficiency of cryogenic refrigeration systems, leaving a lasting influence on industry practices.
Even after his retirement in 2000, Gistau-Baguer continued to share his knowledge, leading over 80 cryogenics training sessions worldwide, mentoring young scientists and inspiring countless students. His passing left a huge void in the scientific community, but his legacy lives on through his indelible contributions to cryogenics.
In recognition of his lifelong commitment to Cryogenic Engineering, Gistau-Baguer was awarded the International Cryogenic Engineering Committee (ICEC) Mendelssohn Award in 2020. His work continues to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. To his wife, Anne, and to his relatives and friends, the community expresses its deepest condolences.
