You will need:
A big sheet of polystyrene foamPolystyrene adhesiveSilicone caulkA utility knifeFoil tapePaint, sequins, or stickers to decorate
Start with a sheet of rigid polystyrene foam. The thickness you select is up to you — the thicker the insulator, the more it protects against energy transfers. The example shown uses 1 inch thick polystyrene foam. These suggested dimensions are for a container that won’t take up too much room in your locker: Base: 6"x10"Top: 6"x10"Long Sides: 4.5"x10" (Quantity: 2)Short Sides: 4.5"x4" (Quantity: 2)Inside Top: 4"x 8" Time to build your lunch container!
The simple solution is to cover your polystyrene foam in foil tape that will reflect away incoming radiation and prevent sharp temperature increases when your cooler is out in the sun. Foil tape placed along the inside joints will also help to keep moisture from entering these seams. This is the fourth piece in a four-part Science for Students series. Read part one, part two, and part three. Mike Willard is a physics and environmental science teacher at Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, MD. He is also involved in a number of engineering and environmental education outreach programs through the school. You can contact him at Michael_J_Willard@mcpsmd.org.
