What happens when cola or red wine is decolorized? Visitors to the Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) stand at the Merseburg Castle Festival on June 20, 2026, were able to find out for themselves. Through exciting experiments and interactive activities, CTC made chemistry accessible and engaging, inviting visitors to explore, experiment, and ask questions.

Everyday Chemistry You Can Experience Firsthand

One of the most popular experiments demonstrated how activated carbon can be used to decolorize cola and red wine. Our colleagues Markus Lange and Andrea Mühlbauer explained how activated carbon binds colorants and why the process ultimately leaves behind an almost colorless “sugar solution.” While some of the younger visitors were fascinated by the cola itself, many were particularly intrigued by the surprising chemical processes taking place behind the scenes.

Creative Experiments with Red Cabbage Juice

Chemistry’s creative side was also on display. Visitors painted on paper that had been treated with red cabbage juice and used vinegar, baking soda, or apple juice to produce a wide range of colors. This hands-on activity allowed participants to discover in a playful way how acids and bases influence pH levels and how these changes affect color.

Science in Dialogue

We were especially delighted by the many conversations with interested visitors throughout the festival. We would like to thank everyone involved for the lively exchange and the City of Merseburg for the opportunity to be part of the Castle Festival. We also extend our thanks to Merseburg University of Applied Sciences for supporting our participation by providing the pavilion. We look forward to future opportunities to make chemistry visible, accessible, and tangible in everyday life.