Wrap the rotor and centerpiece edges with wide tape, using five to six inch pieces overlapping each other.

Be sure the tape is securely fastened to the edges to prevent the mixture from seeping off the plate.

Step Seven

The silica gel is an inhalation hazard. Equip all safety gear including but not limited to filter dust mask and safety glasses.

Step Eight

In this preparation, we used TLC grade silica gel with an indicator and a separate binder of calcium sulfate hemihydrate.