Green Chemistry: Road Deicers—Student Laboratory Kit

Product Details

Learn a quick way to assess the relative toxicities of chemicals commonly found in road deicers. This lab, developed in partnership with Beyond Benign, has students examine the effects of aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride on germination and growth of lettuce seeds. The procedure introduces toxicity measurements while using standard equipment and common techniques, such as serial dilution and volumetric measurement. The goal of the lab is to identify which of the road deicers is the most benign with respect to potential environmental impacts. This can be done as a cooperative class project or on an individual student basis. It requires very little preparation time and exposes students to the tenets of green chemistry and ecotoxicity. Includes reproducible student handouts, Teacher Notes and all necessary chemicals and supplies.

Complete for 28 students working in pairs.