Typically, the depth and scope of science courses within secondary education is limited, in part due to the high expense of chemistry instruments for laboratory exercises. Active and hands-on learning through laboratory activities have been a core of high school chemistry curriculum for many years. The specialized equipment and instruments necessary for these types of student activities are key to creating valuable exercises that enhance learning and provide hands-on opportunities. Due to a combination of factors, including instrument cost, small budgets, and large class sizes, instruments are highly sought after in the high school lab settings. The use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) specifically in the area of open source laboratory equipment has become increasingly normalized in the last few years driving costs down and opening the door to bring instruments into more high school settings. The capabilities of these 3-D printed instruments often rival traditional instruments at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, students are able to demystify the “black box” of commercially available counterparts. This work focusses on the production of a completely customizable and modular optical rail system suitable for a variety of high school physics and chemistry experiments. Two specific configurations, for (1) exploring the wave-nature of light with a double slit and (2) correlating visible light absorbance to solution concentration, will be emphasized and discussed. A separate hands-on laboratory exercise has been developed for each configuration with a focus on several Minnesota high school science academic standards. The classroom use, teaching strategies, and findings will be discussed.<br/>

Open source 3-D printed modular optical rail for secondary education

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.