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An Introduction to Polymer Processing, Morphology, and Property Relationships through Thermal Analysis of Plastic PET Bottles. Exercises Designed to Introduce Students to Polymer Physical Properties

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H. Darrell Iler

Department of Chemistry, Greenville College, Greenville IL 62246

Eric Rutt and Seth Althoff

Department of Chemistry, Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

J. Chem. Educ., 2006, 83 (3), p 439

DOI: 10.1021/ed083p439

Publication Date (Web): March 1, 2006

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

This article describes a set of demonstrations and experiments involving a polymer product that can be used in a polymer chemistry lab course or incorporated into more traditional type chemistry courses (e.g., general chemistry and instrumental analysis). Through thermal analyses of poly(ethylene terephthlate) (PET) bottles, students are introduced to the relationships between processing, morphology, and physical properties of polymer materials. Although the complete set of exercises incorporates differential scanning calorimetry, important relationships can be demonstrated with just PET bottles and a laboratory oven. A "real-world" problem-solving experience is provided through a multi-week lab project in which students assume the roles of analytical chemists for a hypothetical PET bottle manufacturer.

Keywords (Audience):

First-Year Undergraduate / General

Keywords (Domain):

Analytical Chemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Applications of Chemistry

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