Tech & Science · 1938
Innovations Shadowed by the Gathering Storm
In 1938, as geopolitical tensions escalated across Europe, lab discoveries quietly laid the groundwork for the modern technological age. From revolutionary synthetic materials to atomic breakthroughs, science pushed human capability into uncharted territory.
- December 1938 | Berlin, Germany
Discovery of Nuclear Fission
Chemist Otto Hahn and assistant Fritz Strassmann split the uranium nucleus, uncovering the vast and world-altering force of atomic energy.
- October 22, 1938 | Astoria, New York
First Xerographic Image
Chester Carlson created the world's first successful electrophotographic dry copy, laying the foundation for modern photocopiers.
- April 6, 1938 | New Jersey, USA
Accidental Invention of Teflon
While researching refrigerants at DuPont, chemist Roy J. Plunkett discovered polytetrafluoroethylene, an ultra-slippery polymer later branded as Teflon.
- December 23, 1938 | South Africa
Rediscovery of the Living Coelacanth
Museum curator Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer identified a living coelacanth off the coast, shocking scientists who believed the fish was extinct for 66 million years.
- November 16, 1938 | Basel, Switzerland
First Synthesis of LSD
Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25) for the first time while researching circulatory stimulants at Sandoz.
- February 24, 1938 | United States
First Commercial Nylon Toothbrush
DuPont introduced Dr. West's Miracle-Tuft, replacing traditional animal hair bristles with synthetic nylon fibers to revolutionize personal care.
- June 15, 1938 | United Kingdom
Modern Ballpoint Pen Patent
Hungarian journalist László Bíró patented a practical ballpoint pen utilizing quick-drying ink and a rolling ball mechanism.
- April 1, 1938 | Switzerland
Commercial Launch of Nescafé
Nestlé introduced Nescafé, providing a soluble instant coffee powder created to solve Brazil's massive excess coffee bean yields.
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