Nanotechnology at the MODEL AG paper factory
A group of interested teachers from the cantons of Basel-Stadt, Basel-Land and Solothurn visited the "SimplyNano 2" course at MODEL AG. In addition to an exciting tour of the paper factory, there were many experiments from the nano world.
The SimplyNano 2 training course took place on 23 November 2022 at the MODEL AG site in Niedergösgen. Michael Wilms, the plant manager, gave an engaging presentation about the company, the production of paper from waste cardboard and the various apprenticeships at MODEL AG. Afterwards, they went on a short but very impressive tour through the production halls of the paper mill.
In the second part, the actual "SimplyNano 2" training course took place. After a short theoretical part, the teachers examined the superabsorber and, for example, the question of why the baby stays dry. After a short coffee break, the teachers carried out a workshop post run with six different work posts. Among other things, they learned about the gecko effect, the Salvinia effect and the Tyndall effect. These are all phenomena from the nanoworld. They also investigated nickel-titanium alloys, for example, which are used as memory metals in various high-tech materials in medicine because they have a shape memory.
At the end of the course, each participant received a free SimplyNano 2 experiment kit including a learning workshop and USB stick. The feedback from the teachers was very positive. The combination of experimental course and company visit was particularly appreciated. Keywords such as "practical implementation on site" and "friendly and conducive to learning" are just two of the positive feedbacks.
As part of the SimplyNano 2 project in Northwestern Switzerland, all secondary schools in the cantons of BS, BL and SO will be equipped with class sets of a total of 900 "SimpylNano 2" cases. Various companies will be visited as part of the training courses. Model AG supports the SimplyNano 2 project as a Bronze Partner www.simplynano.ch/projekt/nw-ch/.
Source: Innovation Society
Image Source: Innovation Society