Science Sunday #9 - Supersaturated Sodium Acetate (DIY Hand Warmer) + Radiative Cooling Fabric

Supersaturated Sodium Acetate

Acetic acid (vinegar) was neutralized with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and the resulting sodium acetate solution heated to concentrate the solution.

After cooling, a supersaturated solution was obtained. Introduction of seed crystals or another source of nucleation sites causes the supersaturated solution to convert to a solid.

DIY hand warmers were fabricated but the metal click disk initiators made from a tape measure were not very reliable (some initiated without being clicked and others failed to initiate even when clicked).