Three scientists have been awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for improving a process used in making plastics and pharmaceuticals.

Frenchman Yves Chauvin and Americans Richard Schrock and Robert Grubbs were recognised for their contributions to a reaction process called metathesis, BBC reported.

Their work has made the process of synthesizing carbon compounds simpler, more efficient and greener.

Swedish scientist Alfred Nobel founded the prizes in his will written in 1895.

The process of metathesis, or olefin methathesis, allows double bonds to be broken and made between carbon atoms in ways that make atomic groups swap places. The process has been likened to couples changing partners during a dance.

The chemical process takes place with the assistance of special catalyst molecules. Metathesis is used on a daily basis in the chemical industry, mainly in the production of pharmaceuticals and advanced plastics.

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