— Full text opinion

The trade secret at the center of this case was a process that would create 17-inch crystals useful in detecting radiation. Speaking of radiation, a division of the plaintiff firm, Harshaw Chemicals, was involved in the refining of uranium during World War II for the Manhattan Project. This resulted in massive ground pollution that is still a problem today.

Both companies involved in the case were later bought out. Harshaw became a part of Engelhard Corporation which in turn was absorbed into BASF, while Bicron joined with Saint-Gobain Crystals and Detectors.