He studied chemistry at Kiel, Munich, and Berlin, after which he became a professor at University of Halle-Wittenberg.

[1] Vorländer applied his knowledge of molecular structure to select those exhibiting the crystalline liquid state.

"Over the years Vorländer and his students synthesized hundreds of liquid crystalline compounds.

An interesting discovery was that amongst the slimy liquid crystals were many soap and soap-like compounds.

"[2] Vorländer served as a volunteer during World War I, during which he received the Iron Cross.