Placek (Josef Kemr), the head of research in a chemical plant, appreciates the help of his younger colleague Bernát (Alois Svehlík) in the creation of a new synthetic material. Before introducing it into production, however, he wants to get purification equipment installed to prevent the countryside around the town, already suffering from pollution, from being devastated any more. Bernát is just completing a burner for this purpose. Placek's own solution would require another year of development while the management is pressing production to commence as soon as possible. The two previously amicable chemists are now on opposite sides.