Miscellaneous Graphics

Sant Jordi St George's Day Chemistry

Celebrating Sant Jordi (Saint George’s Day) Chemistry with ICIQ

Sant Jordi St George's Day Chemistry
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April 23 is Saint George’s Day, celebrated in particular by a number of countries and cities where Saint George is the patron saint. One of these is, of course, England, though here the celebrations tend to be quite muted and minimal, and certainly nothing in comparison to the merriment that heralds St Patrick’s Day. In Catalonia, however, it prompts a good deal more in the way of celebration, and I made this graphic for the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia to illustrate some of its facets.

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March for Science 2017 – What's Chemistry Ever Done For Us-

The March for Science – Ten things that chemistry has done for us

March for Science 2017 – What's Chemistry Ever Done For Us-
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Across the globe this weekend hundreds of thousands of people in over 500 cities will be marching for science. Though many of those marching may be scientists, it’s not just for those in the scientific community; it’s for anyone who wants to show their support for the funding and continued advancement of science, and the importance of political policies being based on scientific evidence. It’s also about appreciating the role that science plays in our lives – and as this graphic shows, chemistry alone touches your life in more ways than you might have realised!

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The Chemistry of Leaded Petrol, Unleaded Petrol & Diesel

The Chemistry of Petrol & The Tetraethyl Lead Story

Infographic on the chemistry of petrol and diesel. Both petrol and diesel are obtained from fractional distillation of crude oil. Diesel is removed at a higher boiling point and contains a larger quantity of energy per litre. In engines, air and fuel are injected, the fuel is compressed, then combustion of the fuel takes place, with waste gases ejected through the exhaust. Knocking can occur when combustion doesn't occur in sync with the engine cycle, with octane ratings gauging how well fuel avoids this problem. Higher octane ratings indicate less knocking. Compounds added to petrol can boost its octane rating: tetraethyl lead was used as an anti-knocking agent in leaded petrol which has now been phased out. Alternative anti-knocking agents are now used.
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Tomorrow (18th May) marks the date of birth of Thomas Midgley, who made significant contributions to something many of us make use of on a regular basis: petrol. Midgley was the research assistant to Charles Kettering, and the duo were responsible for the addition of the compound tetraethyl lead to petrol. This innovation would have a lasting legacy – although perhaps not in the manner that they may have originally envisioned.

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