Australia's Science Forum

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Hi Juliem, Could you pls give the details of the web address which gives directions on converting formaldehyde specimens to ethanol? I don't have the book you referred to. I also have a number of specimens that have been here since the year dot, most in quite good condition & would like to save ...

Hi Kimmy, The schools in Armidale( both public & private) hold meetings for the lab assistants usually twice a year. We take a turn at each school which usually includes lunch as well.Our meetings go for ~2 - 2 1/2 hours and is a great way of getting info on just about any aspect of the job. The...

Hi Kathryn, I too have done the chemical register for the whole school & I agree it was a nightmare. I colour coded what I could from the info in appendix D but as you said the info is not complete. I have emailed some of the companies that supply our D&T dept regarding the actual chemicals ...

I make a large container & the students are expected to measure & cut them themselves. A straight edge works well, we use the spatulas that have a wooden handle, they seem a bit easier to handle than razor blades.

Estelle, The problem with the database occurs when I'm either printing a new label or entering data for the stores. I can't just type in the name of the chemical & send it to the store, the program wants to search for it first & this is what's so time consuming.When the list of matches come ...

Does anyone else have trouble using chemwatch data base? I find the program very user UNFRIENDLY & am ready to tear out my hair. The main problem is if you're in a hurry & accidently make a spelling mistake there's no way to stop the program from going on it's merry way sorting through 20,00...

You could try using conc HCl. I put them in the sink & use a dropper containing 5M Hydrochloric acid. Watch out, it will spark so make sure you wear safety glasses. You may need to use 10M & leave it for a couple of days. Try using a scourer after you wash the acid out. It may not remove eve...