In an effort to include polymers in the curriculum, a polymer kinetics experiment was adapted for use in an undergraduate physical chemistry course. The growth rate of recrystallization at different temperatures was studied for various polymers, including a series of poly(ethylene glycol) polymers. A comparison microscope with an imaging attachment was used to follow the growth of the spherulites, and the growth rate was modeled mathematically. In addition, extensions were added to highlight other properties of polymers. Student feedback for a trial run of the experiment will be discussed.

Adapting an undergraduate physical chemistry experiment to add polymers to the curriculum

251st National Meeting (2016)

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