tudents at the University of Manchester are using Findensers™ in their chemistry labs, gaining hands-on experience with modern, more sustainable alternatives to traditional water-cooled condensers.
Previously, the use of water-based systems led to high water consumption, flooding issues, and limited exposure to greener lab techniques. By incorporating Findensers™ across the undergraduate levels, the university is addressing these issues.
The situation
The use of water-cooled condensers led to issues with flooding and/or high water usage in teaching laboratories. It also contributed to the lack of teaching of sustainable approaches and various technologies for performing reflux.
As a result, Findensers™ have been used alongside or as a replacement for condensers in first, second and third year undergraduate laboratories.
The results
Radleys supplied Findensers™ for the teaching laboratories. When initial challenges emerged—particularly around use by novice students and concerns about kit durability— Radleys responded promptly with expert advice and support.
"Findensers have enabled us to introduce students to more diverse and newer kit for conducting reflux. Students are introduced to the kit, calculate the water saved through using a Findenser and are allowed to choose which kit to use; this careful introduction through scaffolded teaching activities, enables students to appreciate their environmental impact and make sustainable choices, as scientists" - Dr. Jenny Slaughter, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester
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