Studying the Solubility and Combustion Properties of Different Polymers

This experiment aims to study the properties of some polymeric materials through solubility and combustion tests. In the solubility test, materials such as polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol film, and starch are exposed to three different solvents (water, benzene, and acetone) to determine their solubility. In the combustion test, samples of polystyrene, rubber band, and a piece of cloth are burned to observe their behavior during combustion and determine which one produces more carbon content. This experiment helps in understanding the physical and chemical interactions of polymers and their relationship with their chemical structure.

Materials:

1. A piece of cloth
2. A piece of polystyrene (foam)
3. Starch
4. Rubber band (money band)
5. Polyvinyl alcohol film
6. Acetone
7. Benzene

Solubility Test:

• Place three solvents (water, benzene, and acetone) in three Petri dishes or glass beakers, each containing 10 ml.
• Test the solubility of polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol film, and starch separately, and record the solubility observations.

Combustion Test:

• Using tweezers, place pieces of polystyrene, rubber band, and a piece of cloth (2cm x 3cm).
• Ignite each piece separately and record which material produces more carbon content.

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