Student Fabrication and Use of Simple, Low-Cost, Paper-Based Galvanic Cells To Investigate Electrochemistry

Abstract

© 2015 The American Chemical Society and Division of Chemical Education, Inc. The stated purpose of this article is to provide teachers an inexpensive model for laboratory activity and demonstration of galvanic cells using a paper-based device. Metal strips, metal solutions, and KNO<inf>3</inf> solution serve as electrodes, metal ions, and electrolyte, respectively. A paper-based device is not only a support for reactions, but also a salt bridge for electrolyte. This activity ought to be interesting to all levels of chemistry from middle school classes through potential applications in upper division college classes. Furthermore, teachers may design and fabricate a paper-based device for their classes in chemistry and also related fields. (Figure Presented).