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UV Catalysis, Cyanotype Photography, and Sunscreens

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Glen D. Lawrence

Chemistry Department, Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Stuart Fishelson

Media Arts Department, Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus, Brooklyn, NY 11201

J. Chem. Educ., 1999, 76 (9), p 1199

DOI: 10.1021/ed076p1199

Publication Date (Web): September 1, 1999

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

This laboratory experiment is intended for a chemistry course for non-science majors. The experiment utilizes one of the earliest photographic processes, the cyanotype process, to demonstrate UV catalysis of chemical reactions. In addition to making photographic prints from negatives, the process can be used to test the effectiveness of sunscreens and the relative efficacy of the SPF (sun protection factor) rating of sunscreens. This is an inexpensive process, requiring solutions of ammonium ferric citrate and potassium ferricyanide, with options to use hydrogen peroxide and ammonium hydroxide solutions. Students can prepare their own UV-sensitized paper with the indicated chemicals and watch the photographic image appear as it is exposed to sunlight or fluorescent UV lamps in a light box designed for use in this experiment. The laboratory experiment should stimulate discussion of UV catalysis, photographic processes and photochemistry, sunscreens, and UV damage to biological organisms. The chemicals used are relatively nontoxic, and the procedure is simple enough to be used by groups of diverse ages and abilities.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Laboratory Instruction

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Nonmajor Courses

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This article has been cited by 3 ACS Journal articles (3 most recent appear below).

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The Photochemical Basis of Cyanotype Photography
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- The Photochemical Basis of Cyanotype Photography
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  Clarification of the chemical reactions that take place in the cyanotype process.
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