Science Camp Polymer Chemistry

Under the guidance of XLAB lecturers Christoph Weidman and Dr. Nico Graw, the eight participants worked on the production of petroleum-based plastics and those made from renewable raw materials based on the common production reactions and desired properties of polymers. Substances such as lactic acid, citric acid and sorbitol served as starting materials, which were used as building blocks for the construction of bio-based plastics in polycondensation and polyaddition reactions. The participants also extracted the natural polymer cellulose from wood waste, chemically modified it into cellulose acetate and processed this plastic into a thin, transparent film. In addition to the usual chemical laboratory methods, processing methods such as electrospinning were used. The participants also analyzed microplastics in environmental samples and in superimposed mineral water.

The participants thought that if you want to study chemistry it is good to experience what everyday life in the lab is like. They liked the fact that they could choose from a selection of topics and experiments related to everyday life and sustainability. They had a great vacation week with a stimulating university atmosphere and lots of fun.