Sciencemadness Discussion Board

Powdered Zinc Question

ssdd - 9-5-2008 at 08:03

OK so I was recently working on a Zn/MnO2 cell for a lab. But I had an issue, it seems that the powdered zinc is hardening into almost a cement like material.

I am not sure if this is because it is drying out, too fine, or I missed something.

How would you go about keeping the zinc from hardening?

-ssdd

ScienceGeek - 9-5-2008 at 08:59

I would add a tiny bit of a hygroscopic salt that wouldn't affect the cell. It's just what came to my mind...

bio2 - 9-5-2008 at 17:34

.........I am not sure if this is because it is drying out, too fine, or I missed something.............

Rather it needs drying out. Grind and heat in a shallow dish.