Invention as a Complement to High School Chemistry

Abstract

Does invention belong in the chemistry classroom? This article attempts to answer this question by describing how invention education first took root in a chemistry class at Ridgewood High School in Ridgewood, NJ, and then expanded to other students with diverse interests to find a solution to two worldwide problems: satisfying the need for safe drinking water and reducing plastic waste. Specifically, it describes the students' journey step-by-step during the COVID-19 pandemic to invent a self-sanitizing and sustainable Solar Aqua Tech water bottle. The concept underlying this invention was to quickly produce hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), a well-known sanitizing agent, on-demand within the confines of a bottle using only water, dissolved oxygen (O 2 ), and solar power to eliminate pathogens in untreated water. Students had to convert this chemistry classroom concept into reality without a prescription and without knowing if their goal was even attainable. Since the journey did not take a linear path but veered in different directions as unexpected problems arose, the students sought guidance from academics, mentors, and local experts. Along the way, they acquired new knowledge with deepened understanding and overarching perspectives. Success was achieved only after many setbacks. In the end, the sense of accomplishment for finding a solution to two global problems instilled confidence in the students that, with empathy, perseverance, and resilience, they are equipped with essential skills to tackle 21stcentury challenges. Invention, therefore, can be a valuable complement to the standard chemistry curriculum and is unparalleled in sparking a lifelong passion for learning.

Incorporating Materials Chemistry and CAD into the High School Chemistry Curriculum via 3D Printing and TiO2 Nanotube Fabrication

“…Combining 3D printing and rapid fabrication with chemistry has numerous potential applications in both the laboratory and the classroom, ,,, and increasing accessibility and student interest in research and materials chemistry necessitates the creation of novel and innovative laboratories. We discussed a well-received laboratory lesson that took place at the University of Illinois Laboratory High School involving the 3D modeling and fabrication of a standardized guide to assist in the growth of TiO 2 NTs, and these devices were tested with the direct synthesis of TiO 2 nanotubes.…”

“…Herein we describe a lesson tested in a high school environment incorporating computer-assisted design (CAD), rapid prototyping and fabrication (3D printing), and hands-on chemical synthesis. With the advent of 3D printers in laboratories and classrooms, ,, we can integrate invention into the curriculum to better teach interdisciplinary topics. ,, …”

“…With the advent of 3D printers in laboratories and classrooms, 7,14,15 we can integrate invention into the curriculum to better teach interdisciplinary topics. 9,10,16 The premise of this integrated lab is to fabricate titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO 2 NTs) using a 3D-printed holder. We utilized TiO 2 as the material of choice for nanotube growth due to its high aspect ratio and favorable results after anodization.…”