The Nexus of Art and Science: Creating Art Medals in the Chemistry Lab, Using Graphite Molds

Mark Benvenuto, Megan Karjo, Constantina Sinani and Coryn Le
University of Detroit Mercy

Abstract

The idea of graphing the lead-tin eutectic point when alloys are produced from elemental lead and tin metals may be common and established in chemistry and materials science laboratories. Producing art medals from the alloys that are made is decidedly not. We will present how graphite blocks can be used as both mold and heat sink for the creation of art medals, utilizing metal alloys produced by students in the laboratory. The process brings together art, science and engineering in a single experience. This has been found to be beneficial for students, but is a technique that can be utilized by virtually any person who wishes to experiment and create with low-melting metal alloys.


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Presentation