Preparation of a varnish based on polymer residues as an experimental complement for engineering students

Abstract

 This work presents the development and results of an experience aimed at teaching chemistry in the courses of Materials Engineering and Polymers of the Chemical Engineering career. A varnish was prepared from expanded polystyrene waste. This approach is related to environmental care and the reuse of polymeric waste in the development of value-added products. This work was carried out during the 2022 school year in different meetings. The tasks were carried out with advanced students of Chemical Engineering to complement the experimental activity and incorporate concepts of polymers, solutions, and material properties, among others. The main results show that it is possible to obtain varnishes based on recovered expanded polystyrene with competitive prices and acceptable properties and that students achieve through these experiences to promote their knowledge in polymers and become aware of the importance of caring for the environment.