Investigation of Crystallinity in Polymeric Materials

A kaleidoscope is constructed using polarizing polymer paper and then low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, and polypropylene are all melted onto individual glass slides and examined through a microscope. The intent is to choose a material that could be used as a container for beer, keeping oxygen out and carbon dioxide in. The properties of density and crystalline structure are examined in this activity. Student lab sheets are included.