Contextualization
Polymers are high-molecular weight chemical compounds, resulting from reactions known as polymerizations. They consist of repetitive units, called monomers, which bind together to form macromolecules, our first entry into this fascinating world of polymer chemistry.
These materials are present in most of the things we use in our daily lives, such as food packaging, clothing, electronics, toys, and even in our bodies. Polymers can be classified as natural - like cellulose, found in plants, and DNA, which makes up our genetic code; and synthetic - such as PVC, polystyrene and polyethylene, widely used in industry.
Understanding the properties and structures of polymers is essential for the innovation and development of new materials. Understanding how chemistry makes it possible to create materials with such diverse characteristics is an adventure that transports us to a micro-universe within our everyday macro-universe.
Polymers are everywhere and are essential to our modern society. They are used in the production of an incredible variety of products, from plastic bottles to aircraft parts. Studying polymers helps us to better understand how these materials work and how we can use them to improve our quality of life.
They also play a crucial role in environmental issues. Knowledge about polymers can help to develop solutions to problems such as plastic pollution and the need for more sustainable materials. In the context of science, polymer chemistry is one of the most relevant topics today, and this project is an opportunity to deepen our knowledge and think about the role of these materials in our society.
I recommend the following reliable sources to study Polymers:
-
Encyclopedia Britannica: Polymers - Presents an overview of polymers, their properties, types, and applications. English, but with a translation option to Portuguese.
-
New Chemistry in School: Polymers - Comprehensive Brazilian article on the subject, with bonus didactic activities proposed for the classroom.
-
YouTube: Chemistry of Polymers - Educational video with an explanation about polymers, their structure and applications.
-
Book "Chemistry of Polymers", by Sebastião Vicente Canevarolo Jr., publisher Artliber - More in-depth material, for those who want to delve even deeper into the subject.
Practical Activity: "Polymers in Our Hands!"
Project Goal
Encourage creativity and collective cooperation in theoretical and practical research on polymers. Students will design and carry out a simple experiment to synthesize a common polymer - the "Goo" or "Slime". In addition, they will research other polymers present in their daily lives and contextualize their applications and impacts on society and the environment.
Project Description
The groups must first conduct a theoretical research on polymers, their types, properties and applications. Next, they will plan and conduct a hands-on experiment to synthesize the "Goo", a polymer that behaves in a non-Newtonian manner, being able to be both a solid and a liquid, depending on how it is manipulated. Finally, each group will produce a complete report and create a presentation about the project to share the results with the class.
Necessary Materials
- White glue (PVA)
- Borax (Sodium Borate) or Contact Lens Solution (contains sodium borate)
- Water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Glitter (optional)
- Mixing container
- Spoons or spatulas
Step by Step
-
Research: Each group should research about polymers, their types, properties and applicability. Students should focus on understanding concepts like monomers, covalent bonds, and the chemical and structural composition of polymers. The group can map different types of polymers present in their daily lives, indicating their applications and impacts.
-
Experiment Planning: Groups should plan the "Goo" experiment, estimating quantities, time and steps.
-
Carrying Out the Experiments: The groups should follow the steps below to create the "Goo":
a. Mix about 100 ml of white glue with 30 ml of water in a container.
b. Add food coloring to color the mixture, if desired.
c. Separately, dissolve 1 teaspoon of borax in 100 ml of water.
d. Gradually add the borax solution to the glue mixture, stirring constantly. The goo will start to form.
e. Continue stirring until the goo reaches the desired consistency. If desired, add glitter for a special effect.
-
Observation and Recording of Results: Students should observe the properties of the goo and record the results. They should compare their observations with the theoretical research done previously.
-
Preparation of Report and Presentation: Each group prepares a detailed report on the project, addressing the topics: Introduction, Development, Conclusions and Bibliography as described above. The group should also prepare a presentation about the project, including the demonstration of the goo, to share the results with the class.
Project Delivery
Finally, the groups must deliver the written report and make the presentation to the class within one week. The report should follow the suggested formatting (Introduction, Development, Conclusions and Bibliography) and should bring relevant reflections on the role of polymers in our lives and their impact on society and the environment. On the day of the presentation, the goo produced by the students will be displayed and discussed.
