Engineering a Waterproof Adhesive Bandage Wrapper
School Name
Center for Advanced Technical Studies
Grade Level
12th Grade
Presentation Topic
Engineering
Presentation Type
Non-Mentored
Abstract
Currently, adhesive bandages are wrapped in a thin paper wrapper; this leaves the bandage susceptible to contamination when in contact with water. Adhesive bandages can become exposed to liquids in flooding, at doctor’s offices, at the pool, etc. They are frequently used in first aid kits and the treating of wounds by first aid responders. Exposure to bacteria, that can lead to cancer and diseases is a common fear in contaminated waters—that can also contaminate medical supplies. By creating a waterproof package for individual bandages, waste, cost and the fear of contamination will be reduced. The packaging will also make the bandage easier to open, use and apply. Once engineered, the bandage will be submerged in water, dyed red with food coloring, for varying amounts of time. The dye will stain the bandage in any areas that it comes in contact with it. Another analysis method will be to place the bandage in water filled with bacteria. The bandage will then be swabbed and a plate will be streaked to see if anything grows. If the innovation places both of these tests, resisting water and contamination, it is successful. The tests will be repeated multiple times and the packaging will be adjusted as needed.
Recommended Citation
Jackson, Anna, "Engineering a Waterproof Adhesive Bandage Wrapper" (2018). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 234.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2018/all/234
Location
Lassiter 118
Start Date
4-14-2018 11:30 AM
Presentation Format
Oral and Written
Engineering a Waterproof Adhesive Bandage Wrapper
Lassiter 118
Currently, adhesive bandages are wrapped in a thin paper wrapper; this leaves the bandage susceptible to contamination when in contact with water. Adhesive bandages can become exposed to liquids in flooding, at doctor’s offices, at the pool, etc. They are frequently used in first aid kits and the treating of wounds by first aid responders. Exposure to bacteria, that can lead to cancer and diseases is a common fear in contaminated waters—that can also contaminate medical supplies. By creating a waterproof package for individual bandages, waste, cost and the fear of contamination will be reduced. The packaging will also make the bandage easier to open, use and apply. Once engineered, the bandage will be submerged in water, dyed red with food coloring, for varying amounts of time. The dye will stain the bandage in any areas that it comes in contact with it. Another analysis method will be to place the bandage in water filled with bacteria. The bandage will then be swabbed and a plate will be streaked to see if anything grows. If the innovation places both of these tests, resisting water and contamination, it is successful. The tests will be repeated multiple times and the packaging will be adjusted as needed.
