In the MICRO project, eight quantitative analysis experiments such as acid-base titration, voltammetry, determination of Ksp, redox titration, and spectrophotometry were translated onto paper test cards for use in distance-learning laboratory courses. Over 2,000 students in 20 institutions used these experiments during fall 2020. The cards are inexpensive and safe for use outside a lab setting, and they can be produced using a commercial wax printer. Several experiments can be carried out with nothing more than a plastic Beral pipet, and kits containing inexpensive equipment ($7 voltmeter, $7 20 ul micropipet, $20 balance) can be assembled to enable students to perform more experiments. Although the experiments do not yield the same accuracy that would be obtained from use of analytical instrumentation and volumetric glassware, they are fast and easy to do, and the observables are visible to the naked eye. These properties are well suited to inquiry experiments and development of authentic scientific practices. Implementation is supported by a complete set of instructor and student materials that can be customized by the instructor, a set of workshops to provide initial training, and a community of practice with biweekly meetings.

Paper microfluidic devices allow students to do quantitative analysis experiments in a home setting

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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