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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > March  >
In the Laboratory
Thermal Analysis of Plastics
Teresa D'Amico, Craig J. Donahue, and Elizabeth A. Rais
Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan–Dearborn, Dearborn, MI 48128
Cover
March 2008
Vol. 85 No. 3
p. 404

Abstract
This lab experiment illustrates the use of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) in the measurement of polymer properties. A total of seven exercises are described. These are dry exercises: students interpret previously recorded scans. They do not perform the experiments. DSC was used to determine the percent crystallinity of a polypropylene (PP) dog bone before and after it was pulled on an Instron machine. Using DSC, the percent crystallinity of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) preform was determined and compared with a PET pop bottle. DSC was also used to explore the effect of molecular weight on the glass transition temperature of a series of polystyrene standards. Using a combination of DSC and IR spectroscopy the plastics in automobile headlights and taillights were identified. The same two techniques were also used to examine two commercial nylon samples: fishing line and a tea bag. TGA was used to examine the filler-reinforcement content in a series of PP samples. TGA was also used to examine the rubber tread of an automobile tire. Moisture, elastomers plus extender oil plus additives, carbon black, and filler content were measured.
Supplement
Student handouts; All exercises described in detail; Protocol to obtain the DCS and TGA traces
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Contents
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Citation
D'Amico, Teresa; Donahue, Craig J.; Rais, Elizabeth A. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 404.
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Keywords
First-Year Undergraduate / General; Inquiry-Based / Discovery Learning; Laboratory Instruction; Materials Science; Polymer Chemistry; Polymerization; Thermal Analysis; Upper-Division Undergraduate
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
2/4/2008
2/12/2008
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Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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