The Embedded Penny:  Making Glyptal Resin Plastic

Phthalic anhydride and glycerol are heated in a test tube.  The clear plastic that is formed is poured into an aluminum cap from a plastic cola bottle.  A penny is placed in the cap and permanently embedded in the plastic.

This demonstration is based on that by Bassam Z. Shakhashiri, Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry, Volume    (The University of Wisconsin Press, Madison, Wisconsin, 1989), pp.      .  The explanation is much more in-depth in this textbook, and the demonstration is far more impressive in person; I would highly recommend the purchase of this extraordinary set of books for anybody interested in this or other chemical demonstrations.  As with any demonstration, be sure to follow the directions very carefully and observe all applicable safety precautions.  This web site does not purport to be a site designed to convey directions for chemical demonstrations, and is not liable for any injuries or damages sustained by those who would attempt to re-create this demonstration without proper training, supervision or instructions.  

Concepts:   Polymerization

Time Required:   15 minutes

Chemicals Needed:  Phthalic anhydride, glycerol, sodium acetate