He also helped develop the methods of capillary analysis, a precursor to paper chromatography, published a paper on the possibility of television (years before the discovery of the electron), contributed to chromosome theory, worked on properties of aerosols and gelatins, the origins of silicosis, the role of carbon dioxide in plant life and the mechanism of both black and white and colour photographic processes.

The son of a painter (and eventual photographer), Liesegang longed for an artistic career but lacked the ability to draw or paint.

Research into photographic emulsions led to his personal discovery of Liesegang rings.

Liesegang oHG, Düsseldorf, he also owned a factory producing photographic paper and chemicals.

Liesegang oHG later expanded into optics manufacturing, and sold its photochemical interests.