Science: Synthetic Sugar

The German word ersatz (substitute) has taken on a powerful significance in late years. German research and diligence has found a way to make nitrogen artificially (giving unlimited source for explosives); has made synthetic petroleum; has evolved the small but potent Ersatz Preussen, a warship designed to outrank anything of similar tonnage and armament in other navies.

After 14 years of diligence and research Dr. Friedrich Bergius of Heidelberg University last week announced another ersatz: sugar from wood. He considers “all difficulties solved” in turning wood into cellulose, treating the cellulose with hydrochloric acid to get ersatz-holz-zucker. The product is similar to beet sugar in taste and application.