What's That Smell? A Lesson on Polymer Out-gassing

After having chemistry learners smell "new car," they learn about the out-gassing that occurs in new plastics. Using Zerust® Plastabs® they experiment with the ability of the gas to inhibit corrosion in metals. The experimental setup involves the use of an oven and jars with lids. You will also need to order the Zerust® Plastabs®. These considerations make this instructional activity somewhat difficult to carry out, but it is highly valuable if you can make it happen. Follow it up with a discussion on the hazards and benefits of plastics.