Polymers- Terephthalate Monomerization

Aniline-Hydrochloride Formaldehyde Polymer

Alkimers

Tubeless Siphon

Superabsorbent Polyacrylate Gel

Silly Putty

Rod Climbing by a Polymer Solution

Nylon 6 – 10

Polyurethane Foam

Plastic Samples

Making a Rubber Ball With Latex

Gel Formation with Sodium Alginate and Calcium Chloride

Terephthalate Monomerization 

Terephthalate Monomerization

Description:  A PETE soda bottle is placed in a sodium hydroxide bath. Some hydroxide is also placed in the bottle along with a stir bar. The liquid is heated and after 25 minutes, the phthalate will dissolve. 

Sources: Maynard, J.H., Schreiner, R.S., 2009 

Year: 2009   Vol: N/A   Page: N/A

Keywords: Terephthalate, Monomer, Polymer, Base, Solubility 

Rating:

Hazard: Some

• Corrosive to metals
• Skin corrosion hazard
• Serious eye damage
• Acute aquatic toxicity hazard
• Electric shock hazard
• Burn hazard

Effectiveness: Average

• Time to results is medium
• Some connection from demo to course material
• Results are observable without guidance
• Good reliability
• Mild effects are observed by audience
• Contrast between system behavior is noticeable

Difficulty: Medium

• Use of toxic or corrosive reagents
• Demos at non-standard conditions
• Simple manipulations for most to perform
• Some intermediate steps to results

Safety Precautions:

• Eye protection required
• Gloves required
• Thermal gloves recommended
• Avoid exposure to droplets, mists, or vapors
• Perform in a well-ventilated area
• Absorbent material on hand
• Sodium bicarbonate on hand

Class: Polymers, Organic Chemistry

Division: General, Organic Chemistry

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