Distinguishing Between HD and LD Polyethylene
Description: Samples of high density and low density polyethylene are placed in a 50/50 water/alcohol mixture. The low density polyethylene floats while the high density polyethylene sinks.
Source: Journal of Chemical Education – Vol. 63
Year: 1986 Vol: 63 Page: 417
Keywords: Density, Plastics, Polymers
Rating: 
Hazard: Medium
- Acute toxicity hazard – oral, dermal, inhalation
- Flammability hazard
- Specific organ toxicity – single exposure – eyes
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable without guidance
- Contrast between systems is noticeable
- Time to results is low
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Excellent reliability
Difficulty: Low
- Demos do not involve deep attention
- Procedures are simple
- Simple manipulations for most to perform
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- ABC fire extinguisher on hand
- Absorbent materials on hand
Class: Organic Chemistry, Polymers
Division: General, Organic Chemistry
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