Compared to their plastic parts, a soda may seem like a more environmentally friendly, plastic-free alternative. However, just below the bottom of many aluminum cans there is a very touching mystery. MEL Science recently posted a video of an experiment that shows how some aluminum soda cans actually contain a strange film of plastic. They even have the courtesy of explaining something about how you continue to experiment on your own and the chemistry behind the reaction.
Here is how you can try it at home. First, cover the exterior paint with some sandpaper. When you have just left with a raw glossy can, lift the can rink to the top and stick the wooden rod through the hole. Then, using a wooden rod, place it in a suitable baker or jar to hang it upside down. Next, fill the drain cleaner with it, the one of your choice that contains sodium hydroxide. Finally, leave it there for at least two hours. Annoying, but important things here: Make sure you wear protective gloves, goggles and a mask when doing the test. Also, make sure that it done in a well ventilated; as the reaction will emit hydrogen, gas and it will only supervise by adults. Finally yet importantly, make sure you do not drink soda after the test.
After two hours are over, remove the can and you see that the aluminum has completely dissolved, leaving a thin plastic film with the drink in it. According to MEL Science, the chemical reactions here are 2Al + 2NaOH + 6H₂O = 2Na [Al (OH) ₄] + 3H₂. It may contain aluminum, an amphoteric compound that reacts very easily to alkaline components in drain cleaners. What is the main point of this plastic, you will be surprised? The plastic layer acts as a protective liner to protect the contents of the cans from interacting with the aluminum. After all, some sodas are highly acidic and can eat in metals. It helps to act as a barrier against food-borne illness, which can potentially make you sick. Fortunately, this liner does not seem to affect how easy it is to recycle the can. Aluminum cans use for food and beverages are widely recyclable in most countries. Nevertheless, it cannot show that the use of plastics in pet products and the extent to which it is acceptable is ubiquitous, even if it is not clea
