Obituary from the CSE
Guy Gistau-Baguer, an iconic figure in the field of cryogenics, has passed away, leaving behind an important 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 the field of cryogenics, particularly in the refrigeration and liquefaction of helium.
During his career at Air Liquide, Guy played a central role in the development of technologies for very low temperature helium refrigeration. From 1975 to 2000, he was technical manager of the Helium Refrigeration activity within the Advanced Technology Division in Grenoble, where he supervised 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 helped set new standards in the field, with advances such as the integration of cryogenic centrifugal compressors.
Guy was also a respected expert in the international scientific community. He 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 was the author of numerous technical publications, including his reference work on helium refrigeration, an essential guide for professionals in the field.
His nine patents, some of which are still in use today, are a testimony of his innovative spirit. The advances he introduced significantly improved the efficiency of cryogenic refrigeration systems, lastingly influencing practices in the industry.
Even after his retirement in 2000, Guy never stopped sharing his knowledge, leading over 80 cryogenics training sessions until recently. His passing leaves a huge void in the scientific community, but his legacy lives on through his indelible contributions to cryogenics.
In recognition of his professional commitment and career fully dedicated to Cryogenic Engineering, Guy was awarded the International Cryogenic Engineering Committee (ICEC) Mendelssohn Award in 2020. His work will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. To his wife Anne, his relatives and friends, we express our deepest condolences
