SLIME

Abstract
In this experiment we investigate the properties of SLIME. Substitution of polyvinyl alcohol instead of Guar gum makes this experiment quite accessible. The Slime is prepared by mixing a solution of (Na2B4O7*10H2O) sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Borax) and H2O with a solution of polyvinyl alcohol (pva) and H2O. Then stirring for ~10 minutes to obtain the final product, SLIME. The product was examined and noted on the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.

Object
The object of this lab is to become familiar with writing scientific reports. In doing so, SLIME is prepared along with examining the results and investigating the “non-Newtonian fluid” properties.

Theory
Working with organic and inorganic materials to successfully turn out a product, observe and note step-by-step, is a fundamental process for writing a scientific report. By mixing the sodium borate solution with the PVA solution, non-Newtonian fluid- like properties start to become apparent. When kneading the SLIME, the strands of pva are held together on a molecular level by joining them with bridges of boron dioxide from a borate molecule. Sodium tetraborate decahydrate is commonly used.

Procedure
The experimental procedure conducted is explained in detail in the manual.

Discussion
The final product of the SLIME turned out as predicted. The sodium borate solution was clear after fully dissolving the borax in the warm water and stirring for ~15 minutes. The PVA solution was used with hot water and then even heated, but still remained cloudy after ~12 minutes of stirring. The prediction states that the solution will have cleared, but the results executed were indeed cloudy. Disregarding the cloudiness of the polyvinyl alcohol solution, everything was done methodically and strategically to produce the SLIME. After ~10 minutes of stirring the final product, it obtained non-Newtonian features. The consistency was a lot like a fluid when not disturbed with rapid movement, but when applying a whipping motion, the SLIME gathers and almost solidifies. This is a very messy compound if the ingredients are just slightly off.

Procedure Questions

Q: Why was a 50 mL beaker chosen for this specific experiment?

A: Seeing as (12.5 mL of water) + (0.6 g of material) did not amount to anywhere near 50 mL of volume. Also taking into account that the material is not of extremely low density, then the small 50 mL volume beaker is a necessary size for this experiment.

Q: Does the thread continue to flow like a true liquid, or is there any elastic recoil when cutting with the scissors?

A: When cutting with the scissors as the slime flows downward, the results were that the fluid gained a solid structure for a brief second and did show an elastic quality.

Q: What happens when the SLIME is place upon a large watch glass with felt-tip pen marked on it?

A: Observations show that the SLIME had spread the High lighter fluid and also retained a little amount it seemed. It reacted almost like a sponge.

Conclusion
In the creation of SLIME, using PVA instead of Guar gum was executed accordingly to obtain the predicted results. Investigating the non-Newtonian properties within the product returns great insight to the observer about the structure of such compounds.

References
1.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. 1-1 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013
2.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. 1-2 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013
3.) M. Reimer, Chemistry 101 Laboratory Manual, pp. INTRO-11 (University of Victoria, Victoria, BC) Fall 2013