Chemistry of Hydrophobic Sand

This 35-page learning module from the Northeast Technological Education Center (NEATEC) provides an introduction to the chemistry of hydrophobic sand. After reviewing the document, students should be able to make their own hydrophobic sand by coating regular beach sand particles with silicone spray to make them hydrophobic, investigate the interaction of normal beach sand and hydrophobic sand with water by comparing how they differ when water is added to sand and when sand is added to water, observe hydrophobicity, investigate properties of normal beach sand and hydrophobic sand by adding sand to water and oil, and understand how polarity plays a role in different sand characteristics. New York state common core learning standards, lesson materials, an assessment, resource information for instructors, background information, activities, and an answer key are provided.