Microfluidics for High School Chemistry Students.

Area of Science:

• Chemistry Education
• Microfluidics
• Acid-Base Chemistry

Background:

• Microfluidics offers advanced scientific insights but often requires specialized equipment.
• Integrating novel scientific concepts into high school curricula can be challenging.
• Accessible experiments are needed to introduce students to microfluidics and chemical principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an accessible laboratory experiment for high school chemistry students.
• To introduce fundamental concepts of microfluidics and acid-base chemistry.
• To foster experimental design skills and creativity in students.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing common classroom equipment (computer software, Shrinky Dink film, silicone polymer).
• Employing safe, inexpensive, and commercially available reagents (weak acids, bases, pH indicator).
• Students design, build, and iteratively redesign microfluidic devices for controlled mixing of solutions.

Main Results:

• Students successfully created microfluidic devices capable of mixing solutions to achieve predictable pH outcomes.
• The iterative design process allowed for optimization of device performance.
• The experiment effectively demonstrated principles of laminar flow, neutralization, and polymer properties.

Conclusions:

• This microfluidics experiment is feasible and effective for high school chemistry classrooms.
• The hands-on approach enhances understanding of core chemistry concepts and scientific design.
• It provides exposure to cutting-edge science using readily available resources.