We developed a middle and/or high school activity in which students explore the various chemical properties of different types paper. Students design and etch individual images onto a metal zinc surface and compare and contrast how different inks adheres to the different types of paper. One of these types of papers will be a recycled paper that the students prepare. As part of this activity, students examine both the ink and paper chemistry. The various methods used to prepare different papers and the chemical compositions of inks are discussed. This activity presents age-old chemistry in a hands-on and entertaining fashion.

Examining ink and paper chemistry in middle and high school chemistry

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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