Alifchem Kit: A Recycled Plastic-Based 3D Learning Tool for Visualizing and Drawing Organic Skeletal Structures

Organic chemistry is one of the challenging subjects in chemistry. The subject requires students to understand and visualize the molecular structures of compounds that cannot be seen directly. One of the common difficulties is learning to draw and skeletal structures and to identify the IUPAC name of the chemical compounds. Most of the students struggle to relate this two-dimensional skeletal formula with the real three-dimensional arrangement of atoms and bonds. This leads to misunderstanding and cause problems grasping in organic chemistry concepts. Due of this, AlifChem Kit was created developed and introduce as a teaching and learning tool that helps students visualize organic molecular structures through hand-on activities. The kit contains three-dimensional (3D) molecular models made from recycled plastic materials, making it both eco-friendly and affordable. With this Kit, students can explore carbon chains, identify bonding patterns, and gain a better understanding of how molecular are shown in skeletal formulas by physically handling and manipulating the models. The AlifChem kit also promotes active learning as the students can learn through observations, discussion, and exploration rather than just relying on textbook drawings. This hands-on experience improves their visual-spatial skills and builds confidence in accurately drawing and interpreting skeletal structures. At the same time, the use of recycled plastic materials encourages sustainability and environmental awareness in education. Ultimately, the AlifChem Kit offers suggest a practical and engaging learning experience that helps students master key concepts in organic chemistry. This innovation can improve students’ understanding of skeletal structures, boost classroom engagement, and enhance learning outcomes while supporting sustainable education efforts.

Organic Chemistry Education, Skeletal Structures, Molecular Visualization, 3D Learning Tool, Sustainable Education, Recycled Plastic Materials

1. Adrienne M. Pesce & Daniel B. King. (2024). Using a Molecular Modeling Application to Introduce Structural Isomerism. Journal of Chemical Education. 100 (9), 3683-3687. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.3c00169 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Elyasova, J. E. (2025). The impact of molecular modeling and simulation technologies on students’ conceptual understanding in chemistry education. In Proceedings of the 11th International Scientific and Practical Conference: Current Issues and Prospects for the Development of Scientific Research (pp. 49–54). InterConf. https://doi.org/10.51582/interconf.19-20.08.2025.007 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Hoai, V. T. T. (2023). Using 3D molecular structure simulation to develop chemistry competence for students. European Journal of Mathematics and Science Technology Education, 19(4). [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/13084 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Sánchez Morales, R., Sáenz-López, P., & de las Heras Perez, M. A. (2024). Green Chemistry and Its Impact on the Transition towards Sustainable Chemistry: A Systematic Review. Sustainability, 16(15), 6526. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156526 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Underwood, S. M., Kararo, A. T., & Gadia, G. (2021). Investigating the impact of three-dimensional learning interventions on student understanding of structure-property relationships. Chemistry Education Research and Practice, 22(2), 247-262. https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RP00216J [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Ward, L. W., Rotich, F., Arévalo, S., & Popova, M. (2026). Translating across multiple representations of molecular structure: Student reasoning, accuracy, and personas. Chemistry Education Research and Practice. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1039/D5RP00382B [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• Assessment of the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Repositioning TVET for Economic Development in Nigeria
• Teachers’ Use of Assure Model Instructional Design on Learners’ Problem Solving Efficacy in Secondary Schools in Bungoma County, Kenya
• “E-Booksan Ang Kaalaman”: Development, Validation, and Utilization of Electronic Book in Academic Performance of Grade 9 Students in Social Studies
• Analyzing EFL University Students’ Academic Speaking Skills Through Self-Recorded Video Presentation
• Major Findings of The Study on Total Quality Management in Teachers’ Education Institutions (TEIs) In Assam – An Evaluative Study