Infrared spectrum of crystalline 6-APA

Original infrared spectrum diagram, dated, 22 April 1959 of crystalline 6-APA (6-aminopenicillanic acid), isolated by Ralph Batchelor, spectrum obtained by the analytical sections of Beecham Research Laboratories, Brockham Park

Research in 1957 by the team at Beecham Research Laboratories led to the development of several semi-synthetic penicillins. By tweaking 6 aminopenicillanic acid's chemical structure, scientists created medicines to treat a wider range of bacterial infections, with fewer side effects.

Frank Ralph Batchelor (1931-2021), Frank Doyle (1921-2006), John Nayler and George Rolinson (1928-2016) published their results in the journal Nature. Their careers focused on antibiotics, remaining at Beechams for most of their working lives.