Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)

Creación de un fluido no newtoniano por entrecruzamiento de alcohol polivinílico

Organic Synthesis Beginner (Middle School) 20 min ~$5,00

Objetivo

Crear slime entrecruzando alcohol polivinílico (PVA) con borato de sodio, demostrando la química de polímeros y el comportamiento de fluidos no newtonianos.

Antecedentes

When sodium borate (borax) is added to polyvinyl alcohol, borate ions form cross-links between PVA polymer chains, creating a viscoelastic material known as slime. The product exhibits non-Newtonian behavior: it flows slowly under gravity but breaks when pulled sharply.

Advertencias de seguridad

  • Borax is an irritant — avoid eye contact
  • Wash hands after handling slime
  • Do not eat the slime

EPP requerido

goggles

Materiales

  • Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution (50 mL)
    4% solution or white school glue
  • Sodium borate (borax) (5 g)
    Dissolved in 50 mL water
  • Food coloring (2-3 drops)
    Optional

Equipamiento

250 mL beaker Stirring rod Measuring cylinder

Procedimiento

1

Pour 50 mL of PVA solution (or white school glue) into the beaker.

1 min
2

Add 2-3 drops of food coloring if desired and stir.

1 min
3

Slowly add the borax solution to the PVA while stirring continuously.

3 min
4

Continue stirring as the mixture thickens into slime. Knead with hands once it forms.

5 min Wash hands afterward
5

Test the non-Newtonian properties: roll into a ball, let it flow slowly, pull sharply to see it snap.

5 min
6

Experiment with the ratio of borax to PVA to change slime consistency.

5 min

Resultados esperados

A stretchy, squishy slime that flows slowly under gravity but breaks when pulled quickly. More borax makes stiffer slime; less makes it more fluid. The cross-linking is reversible — slime will slowly become more liquid over days.

Limpieza

Slime can be disposed of in the trash. Wash hands with soap and water. Rinse beaker with warm water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)?
Crear slime entrecruzando alcohol polivinílico (PVA) con borato de sodio, demostrando la química de polímeros y el comportamiento de fluidos no newtonianos.
How difficult is Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)?
This experiment is rated as Beginner (Middle School). It takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)?
Key safety precautions include: Borax is an irritant — avoid eye contact; Wash hands after handling slime; Do not eat the slime.
What materials are needed for Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)?
The main materials required are: Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution, Sodium borate (borax), Food coloring.
What results should I expect from Síntesis de Slime (PVA Entrecruzado)?
A stretchy, squishy slime that flows slowly under gravity but breaks when pulled quickly. More borax makes stiffer slime; less makes it more fluid. The cross-linking is reversible — slime will slowly become more liquid over days.