Experiment 12: BoPET
date | aim | method
| materials & equipment | results
| conclusion
Date
2 March 2010 by Quest 2, to link in with Chapter
12 of our book.
Aim
To investigate the properties of biaxially-oriented polyethylene
terephthalate polyester film, or boPET polyester film (commonly known
by the brand name Mylar).
Method
Take a sheet of mylar and try pulling it apart. While pulling on the
sides, poke the middle with a pen or other sharp object. Tear the sheet
from the edge.
Materials & Equipment
- Mylar sheet (the wrapper from a mailed magazine).
- Pen.
Results/Observations
When James first pulled the edges of the mylar it held strongly until
suddenly it split apart with a bang. This was a great source of amusement
to those watching.
The mylar was almost impossible to pull apart unless it had a small hole
or tear, in which case it had next to no strength at all.
Conclusion
- Mylar is very strong if it is intact, but very weak if it is not.
- Suddenly breaking mylar makes kids go giggly.
|
