Chemistry Phenomenon: Guano Kills The Bridge

Ways to increase interest in Chemistry and Improve your grades be it for GCE O Level Chemistry, ICGSE, IB or IP prorgammes.

Everyday Life Occurences is the KEY!

As i have mentioned earlier, learning Chemistry is easy when you show aptitude and interest in the subject. Chemistry is happening around us everyday – all the phenomenons.

Below i would like to share with you on a Chemistry Phenomenon that i came across in TODAY papers dated 25th Aug 07.

Title: Did Pigeon Poo Weaken Fallen Minnesota Bridge?

I almost LOL when i read the title of this article. Interesting isn’t it. Corny in a way. But after catching my breath and reading through – it is no corny anymore, it is based on scientific knowledge.

Inspectors searching for causes of the collapse of a Minnesota Bridge this month that killed at least 13 people have identified pigeon droppings as a possible factor. It is thought the build-up of Guano over many years could have speeded up the rusting of the steel beams in the eight-lane bridge, which collapsed into the Mississipi River on Aug 1.

Structural engineers had been aware of the problem as early as 1987, when inspectors noted a coating of Guano on the inside of some of the steel girders. Pigeon droppings contain Ammonia and Salt, which, when combined with rainwater, can lead to tiny electrochemical reactions that rust the steel.

“Over a long term, it might in fact cause structural weaknesses.” Mr Neal Langerman, of the prestigous American Chemical Society (ACS) said.

The authorities can point to efforts to contain the problem, when screens were put up to prevent pigeons from nesting in some if the openings in the structure. But the build-up of Guano is thought to have continued on the other parts of the bridge.

Guano is just one of the factors that Inspectors are considering as they seek to prevent a repeat of the catastrophe in other ageing bridges in the United States.

Here is what i call CHEMISTRY – The World of Wonders!

Enjoy,

Sean, Master Trainer
Chemistry Made Easy

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Sean Chua

Winners Education Centre Pte. Ltd.

Many know me as the Ten Year Series book author for JC A-Level H2 Chemistry and O-Level Pure Chemistry. My 19+ years of coaching experience (since 1999) with more than 1500 students from 180+ JCs and Secondary Schools has allowed me to understand the true reasons why students are not able to perform well in Chemistry. Most importantly, my strength lies in using everyday analogies (even grandmothers can understand!) to simplify abstract concepts. Also, my teaching methodology has been designed to be fun, enjoyable and effective for my students. If you want to have an enjoyable time learning Chemistry and being motivated to excel in Chemistry, contact me today at 98287357