Week 11

Week 6

Summary

Written by Trumann (24 Dec 2021)

What was done this week

For this week, both groups were at the workshop hence there will be no separate grouping. On the prototype side, a new crude prototype was made for future electrolysis experiments while leaks in the clear and colored prototypes were patched using sealant glue. 

Figure 1: Second version of crude prototype

The crude prototype had to be tested for leaks and if it was air-tight. The first version of the crude prototype was scrapped as it was not air-tight and had some minor leaks. A second crude prototype was made using a better quality plastic container with an air-tight covering system. After installing the electrodes and pipe, the experiments could start. 

Figure 2: Electrolysis experimental set-up

Due to a lack of time, only 1 run was done for the electrolysis of KOH. The amount of gas produced was recorded as results.

Another experiment was to test for solubility of chitosan in 15% acetic acid was ran at the same time. A piece of  tin foil was placed above the machine to help insulate it as the temperature of the water bath would maintain below the required temperature  due to the tall beaker used. 

Figure 3: Ultrasonication machine with tin foil as cover

Vacuum filtration was used to determine the amount of chitosan dissolved. This can be done by doing vacuum filtering then drying the filter paper and weighing it to determine the amount of undissolved chitosan. 

Figure 4: Vacuum filtration setup sketch

Figure 5: Pouring sample slowly

Chitosan and acetic acid residue was dried at 50°C, Fan speed of 100% and 80% flap for an hour after performing ultrasonication as written earlier in the post and vacuum filtration. The residue was not dry enough so it was further dried for an extra 30 mins. 

Follow-Up

The following sessions, alternate ways to determine the amount of dissolved chitosan will be looked into. Should there not be any feasible method that can be found, the current method will be improved upon. The data collecting for the amount of gas produced by KOH and KOH with chitosan in acetic acid will be done.