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Abstract
This study explores how proximity to a boundary affects the melting rate of candelilla wax. Dyed wax cubes were placed in a heated bath at different distances from the bottom surface, and their melting behavior was recorded over time. Image analysis with ImageJ was used to track changes in projected area, which were then used to estimate volume and mass loss rates. It was initially expected that samples closer to the boundary would melt more slowly due to restricted heat transfer and reduced fluid motion. However, the results showed the opposite trend, with cubes near the heated boundary melting more quickly and finishing about 10 seconds earlier. This suggests that the boundary acted as a source of heat rather than a simple physical boundary.
Document Type
Final Report
Class Name
Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study
Language
English (en)
Date of Submission
5-2-2026
Recommended Citation
Hirshman, Halle, "Investigating the Effect of Boundary Proximity on the Melting Rate of Wax" (2026). Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Independent Study. 322.
https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/mems500/322