Gel Formation with Sodium Alginate and Calcium Chloride
Description: A sample of 1-2% sodium alginate is dissolved in water and is then expressed via syringe into 1% (0.1M or higher) calcium chloride solution. The resulting mixture creates a crosslinked gel that may be physically separated from the aqueous phase.
Source: Vinokur, J.K., UCLA
Year: 2016 Vol: N/A Page: N/A
Keywords: Polymers, Gel, Crosslink, Alginate
Rating: 
Hazards: Low
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Electrical shock if video feed is used
Effectiveness: Average
- Somewhat connected conceptually to course material
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Time to results is low
- High reliability
Difficulty: Low
- Simple adding of nonreactive reagents
- Simple manipulations for most to perform
- Simple procedures
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- UL approved three prong plug and outlet if video feed is used
- Absorbent materials on hand
Class: Intermolecular Forces, Polymers
Division: General, Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry
Home| General Chemistry Demonstrations| Organic Chemistry Demonstrations