This reading has a threefold purpose. It introduces students to an environmental issue involved with commercial production of fluoropolymers; it demonstrates how science and technology can be applied to address the issue; and it introduces the supercritical state. The supercritical state can be used to reinforce the concept of the three classical states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. To this end, a Tutorial, The States of Matter, has been included in this module.

Relevant National Science Education Standards

Unifying Concepts and Processes —The reading involves the workings of two systems: the polymerization mixture involved in making fluoropolymers and the atmosphere in which chorinated hydrocarbons can react with ozone.

Physical Science — The reading deals with the chemical reactions that produce fluoropolymers.

Science and Technology and Science in Personal and Social Perspectives — The reading discusses an environmental issue raised by commercial polymer production and the use of supercritical fluid technology to address that issue.

References

McCoy, Michael. "DuPont, UNC Partnership Yields Teflon Investment," Chemical and Engineering News, 26 April 1999, 77, 10.