Determining Thermal Coefficient of Binary Solvent Mixture

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the thermal expansion coefficient of a binary solvent mixture, specifically focusing on Tert Butanol and Propanol, in the context of creating silica aerogels through freeze-drying. The inquiry involves both theoretical and experimental aspects of measuring thermal properties of solvent mixtures.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to understand how to determine the thermal expansion coefficient for a mixture of solvents, noting the importance of low coefficients to avoid damaging the aerogel matrix during crystallization.
  • Another participant suggests using the thermodynamic relation dV/dT to find the thermal expansion coefficient, acknowledging that the process may become complex.
  • A request for further explanation of the suggested method is made, indicating a need for more detailed information on the approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not present a consensus, as participants are exploring different methods and seeking clarification on the proposed approach without agreeing on a definitive solution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks specific assumptions regarding the behavior of solvent mixtures in solid state versus liquid state, and the applicability of the proposed thermodynamic relations may depend on additional factors not yet addressed.

Who May Find This Useful

Researchers and students involved in materials science, particularly those working with aerogels and solvent properties, may find this discussion relevant.

OptiPessimist
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Hello,

Currently, I am working on a science project involving the creation of silica aerogels through the process of freeze-drying. As a result, i need to experiment with mixtures of solvents with low thermal expansion coefficients (so the crystallization of the solvents will not damage the aerogel matrix) However, i have hit a huge impediment.

While it is relatively simple to look up the thermal expansion coefficients for a given solvent,

how would one determine the thermal expansion coefficient for a mixture of solvents? (For example, the thermal expansion coef of a mixture of Tert Butanol and Propanol?)

Would the coefficient be nearly the same if the solvents were in solid state? (For they will be frozen, then sublimated)
 
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i would suggest finding dV/dT using thermodynamic relations. might get a bit hairy
 
Can you explain this method a bit more in depth?

Thanks
 
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