Oct. 15 Chemistry Day Celebrates 'Fabulous Fibers'

Conduct experiments with dyes, wicking and solar printing when Chemistry Day comes to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum from noon to 4 p.m. on Oct. 15!

The museum and the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society invite visitors of all ages to explore how chemistry is a part of everyday life with this year's theme of "Fabulous Fibers, the Chemistry of Fabrics!" The activities are planned for the 36th annual Chemistry Day in observance of National Chemistry Week. The KVM and the Society are the co-sponsors.

"After two amazing digital programs in 2020 and 2021, this year the area chemists from colleges, universities and companies are enthusiastic to be back in person," said Museum Director Bill McElhone. "Professional chemists can't wait to lead patrons through experiments to showcase chemistry in yet another fun and exciting way."

Investigate chemical dyes, synthetic fibers and a wide variety of new experiments exploring the use of chemistry in fabrics, along with many yearly favorites. The event is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.

Expected are members of the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society, area chemists from Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College and local companies such as Pfizer, Kalsec, Perrigo and Kalexsyn. Teachers are encouraged to come and get educational materials and lessons to share with their students.

Science never stops. Virtual experiments in 2020 provided a peek into what was happening with exhibits while the museum was closed, introduced museum staff and shared adhesive experiments to solve a crime caused by the mysterious Sticky Bandit.

In 2021, local chemists re-enacted the story of the Wizard of Oz with a chemistry twist. Both programs can still be found on the museum's website at kalamazoomuseum.org/events/chemistry-day.

Learn more about this year's in-person "Fabulous Fibers" Chemistry Day at kalamazoomuseum.org.