1. Intermixing and Solidification of a Sugar-Wax Mixture
Cynthia Macht and Nathan Radcliffe
Tufts University REU
June 5, 1998

2. Project Overview
Initial microstructures of sugar candy and beeswax were known
Substances were heated, mixed and allowed to solidify
Macroscale and microstructural properties were examined

3. Experimental Process COOL WHACK! Substances mixed Cylindrical mold
25ml sugar water
25ml beeswax
Heated to 350 C°
COOL
WHACK!
Mold is broken
Microstructure observed

4. Cooling Rate
center
outside
Thermocouple disconnects

5. Macroscale Analysis Caramel colored Marbled finish
Sticky texture immediately after solidification
Hard/brittle
Solid after cooling
Thermocouple wire

6. Microstructural Analysis
Microstructure retained properties of each substance
Regional variation occurred
Surface composition:
Homogeneous area
Smooth crystal

7. Conclusions
When melted together, sugar and wax structures usually resist homogeneous combination
Sugar retains crystal properties and wax retains its rough surface and homogeneity
Sample observed exhibited properties from both substances
Due to continuous stirring, sample solidified as a heterogeneous solid